If you’ve started the new year with a technology upgrade, don’t forget you can donate any old and unused devices to Wolves Tech Aid.
The initiative, led by City of Wolverhampton Council, accepts laptops, tablets, mobile phones and desktop computers and puts them back into use for school pupils and others in the community.
Donating is easy – just drop devices off with staff at any library in the city. All personal data is wiped before donated kit is redistributed.
More than 1,600 devices have been recycled by Wolves Tech Aid since the not for profit project began in 2021, with about 900 given to over 17 city schools.
The council also works with its Digital Wolves network of trusted partners to support those in the community who do not have access to technology.
City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, Councillor Obaida Ahmed, said: “Wolves Tech Aid plays an important part in ensuring everyone in Wolverhampton can benefit from technology and the connectivity to get online and improve their lives.
“Don’t let your old devices sit gathering dust in a drawer, hand them in at your nearest library and we will make sure they are quickly put to good use in schools and the wider community.
“I am appealing for residents and businesses who have computers or any other devices they are thinking of throwing away to donate to Wolves Tech Aid and help us bridge the digital divide.”
Winston Lindsay is an independent wellbeing social worker at Ark Training – part of the Digital Wolves network – which connects people with educational and training opportunities.
He said: “Wolves Tech Aid is a transformative initiative which has enabled us to support more than 50 people so far.
“We have had those experiencing isolation and, due to the rising cost of living, unable to buy their own laptop or device but Tech Aid has helped to revolutionise their lives.
“They are now able to communicate effectively with others and access online information and resources.”
Devices do not have to be in pristine condition. Even if they cannot be recycled, Wolves Tech Aid can use parts to refurbish other devices.