A new project is bridging the digital divide by providing laptops to disadvantaged young people and digital skills workshops for older residents in South Cambridgeshire.
A project for pupils allocates £21,000 to ensure young people have access to the technology they need to thrive in education and beyond.
A further £5,000 has been dedicated to supporting older residents in sheltered housing, helping them to get online and build essential digital skills.
The initiative is part of a commitment to ensure no one is left behind in the digital revolution, giving everyone the opportunity to stay connected.
The project is being delivered thanks to the District Council partnering with Cambridge Online, a local charity dedicated to reducing digital inequality.
Councillor Henry Batchelor, Lead Cabinet Member for Communities for South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "We want everyone in our community to have the tools they need to succeed. Access to technology is no longer a luxury—it’s essential for education, employment, and staying connected. By working with Cambridge Online, we’re helping to ensure that no one is left behind and that everyone has the opportunity to thrive."
Marcus Whewell, CEO of Cambridge Online, added: "Digital exclusion can have a profound impact on life chances. This partnership will not only provide vital equipment, but also the skills and confidence to use it effectively. We’re excited to work with local schools and older residents to make a real difference."
Under the scheme, Cambridge Online will deliver laptops to young people and run training sessions throughout the remainder of the school year, helping them make the best use of the devices.
The project aims to reach up to 25 students across different schools, with Cottenham Village College already signed up to the scheme, and Swavesey Village College and Northstowe Secondary College expressing strong interest.
For the older residents' project, the charity will visit sheltered housing schemes across the district to deliver training sessions helping residents to use their devices to access and navigate the internet safely.
Funding for the project was agreed in a meeting of the District Council's Cabinet in November 2024 as part of Cost-of-Living support. Additional funding came from an underspend in the previous years’ budget.
Background about Cambridge Online
Cambridge Online was founded in 1996 by Anne Campbell MP to bring public internet access to Cambridge. It expanded in 1997 with more access points and advice hubs, and became a registered charity in 2003.
The charity promotes digital inclusion by helping people overcome barriers to access essential online services, from managing finances to staying connected with family and friends.
It offers free support across Cambridge, Huntingdon, Peterborough, and Fenland - including safe learning spaces, access to devices and data, one-to-one help, and classroom training.
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