Government launch IT Reuse for Good charter

Backed by Good Things Foundation, Deloitte and VodafoneThree, the UK Government is asking organisations to start donating IT equipment to help people get online.

Over 1.5 million people in the UK are digitally excluded due to not having access to a laptop, tablet or mobile phone.

The charter aims to increase the number of reusable devices being donated to help ease this digital divide.

IT Reuse for Good

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has published the IT Reuse for Good charter in partnership with digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation.

According to the UK Consumer Digital Index 2024, published by Lloyds Banking Group, as many as 1.5 million (or 3%) of UK adults do not have a smartphone, tablet or laptop in which they can use to get online.

The charter aims to encourage businesses to donate computers, laptops and smart phones to be repurposed for use by those without access to devices in a bid to help ease this aspect of the digital divide.

Ryan, a single father from Essex, struggled without access to a laptop. "Job searching felt impossible," he said. "I couldn't keep up and felt like I was falling behind."

Through a donation from Vodafone's Great British Tech Appeal to the National Device Bank, an initiative led by Good Things Foundation, Ryan received a laptop that transformed his prospects. "This laptop isn't just a piece of equipment - it's a lifeline," Ryan shares. Now, he can actively search for jobs, attend online training, and build a better future.

"I want my kids to see what's possible with determination and the right support," Ryan says.

While DSIT and Good Things Foundation already have the backing of Deloitte, VodafoneThree, and BT, they're calling on companies to become one of the first 100 organisations to sign the charter.

Companies who sign the IT Reuse for Good charter promise to:

• take a reuse first approach to IT asset management - giving devices a second-life by refurbishing and gifting them to help close the UK's digital divide
• embed this approach into ongoing IT asset management strategies over time
• ensure devices are securely wiped, refurbished to good quality, fit for purpose, and provided free of charge to support people and families in the UK who are digitally excluded
• measure and report bi-annually on the environmental benefits and social impacts
• share lessons learned and encourage others to join the movement

They're also required to donate their first device within six months of signing, and monitor progress by self-reporting every six months.

Helen Milner OBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation, said, "Alongside the government, VodafoneThree and Deloitte, Good Things Foundation has developed the IT Reuse for Good Charter, tackling the UK's digital divide and e-waste crisis head-on. With 1.5 million adults lacking essential devices and 1.45 million tons of e-waste discarded yearly, we're proud to lead the charge for a more inclusive and sustainable future. The Charter builds on the success of our National Device Bank and will be a game-changer, unlocking thousands of devices. We have also launched a Playbook to help businesses to navigate IT reuse for good, and bake it into their organisations."

How to get a free PC

People struggling to get online due to a lack of equipment can look to various programmes to access reduced price, or even free, devices.

While many of these programmes will be operating on a local level through schools, libraries and community centres, it's still possible to find national schemes for discounted laptops and computers.

GetOnline@home is one such website, where it's possible to access a refurbished Windows 11 PC from as little as £99, or a Windows 11 laptop from £199.

Read more in our guide to getting a free computer or laptop.

Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said, "Britain is leading the way when it comes to technological advancements with everyday essentials such as doctor's appointments and job applications becoming increasingly digital. But to maximise the full potential of technology, we need to bring everyone along with us on this journey.

"This Charter represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a more sustainable approach to technology. By working together with industry and charity partners, we're helping more people access the digital tools they need to improve their lives while reducing harmful electronic waste.".