The DigiKnow Alliance, a group of organisations working to tackle digital exclusion in Stockport, have welcomed a technology recycling charity to the group.
Community Computers, an initiative by Stockport charity Renewal Northwest, recycles donated IT equipment, providing low-cost refurbished computers and smartphones for low income households in Stockport. Their work also helps to provide work skills to the long-term unemployed, as well as reducing the levels of e-waste going to landfill and ensuring hazardous materials are properly disposed.
The charity will also help to supply and maintain digital devices for Stockport’s Digital Device Library, which was set up in 2020.
DigiKnow Alliance are now calling on local businesses and residents to donate any unwanted digital devices to the charity to help more people in the borough get online. They will accept most IT equipment, including:
- Working TFT monitors
- Desktop computers
- Laptops
- Networking peripherals, such as switches, patch panels, cabinets and power supplies
- Servers
- iPhones and other smartphones
- iPads and other tablet computers
- Laser printers and scanners
- Cameras
- Office furniture and other equipment
Data security is a high priority for the charity; all equipment will see any data erased in line with US Department of Defence standards for free. Businesses can also arrange for bulk collection of items.
While the Community Computers initiative has received some funding from Stockport Local Fund, the technology recycling charity’s long-term sustainability in bringing digital access to the whole community is dependent on donated devices. Information on how to donate is available from the organisation’s website.