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Libraries across North Somerset have received 45 refurbished Samsung Android smartphones, donated by digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation. The devices will be given to residents who don’t currently have access to a suitable device or mobile data.
The smartphones will be distributed through Opportunity North Somerset, the council’s free job skills support service. Residents can apply online and speak to an Advisor in North Somerset here. Anyone without internet access can visit their local library, where staff will be able to help them complete the application.
To be eligible, residents must:
- be 18 or over,
- live in a low-income household,
- have little or no access to a suitable device or data.
The scheme builds on the success of a previous partnership between North Somerset Council, Opportunity North Somerset and the Good Things Foundation through the National Device Bank, which saw 40 refurbished laptops donated to residents in need.
The laptops were distributed through libraries after residents were identified by Opportunity North Somerset and are already helping people access online services, learn new skills and stay connected with others.
Residents who received laptops have shared how the devices have made a difference:
- A resident living with Parkinson’s who struggles with communication now uses his laptop for writing and keeping in touch with support services.
- A single parent is using her device to study Maths and English online while searching for work.
- An 87-year-old resident from Congresbury, previously a complete beginner in IT, can now stay in touch with the community groups she supports, many of which organise activities online.
Councillor Catherine Gibbons, North Somerset Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Families and Lifelong Learning, said: “Being online has become an essential part of everyday life, whether that’s applying for jobs, accessing services, learning new skills or keeping in touch with family and friends.
“These smartphones will help residents who might otherwise miss out on those opportunities. We’re really grateful to the Good Things Foundation for supporting North Somerset residents and helping more people get connected.”
Residents who think they may be eligible can apply through the Skills Connect ‘Speak to an Advisor in North Somerset’ page. Anyone without internet access can visit their local library for help completing the application.