National Device Bank UK

The National Device Bank is a UK-wide initiative run by Good Things Foundation that provides free refurbished laptops, tablets, and smartphones to people who are digitally excluded and cannot afford suitable devices. It was created during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since become a permanent programme to help people access essential online services, education, employment opportunities, and healthcare. [goodthings...dation.org], [gov.uk]

How it works

• Public and private sector organisations donate surplus IT equipment.

• Devices are securely wiped, refurbished, and prepared for reuse.

• The devices are distributed through the National Digital Inclusion Network, a network of community organisations and local support hubs across the UK.

• Those local organisations then give the devices to eligible people in their communities. [goodthings...dation.org], [recono.me]

Who can get a device?

Individuals cannot usually apply directly to the National Device Bank. Instead, access is through local charities, community groups, libraries, councils, and digital inclusion organisations that are members of the network. [goodthings...dation.org]

Impact

According to Good Things Foundation, the National Device Bank has:

• Distributed tens of thousands of devices across the UK.

• Helped people access jobs, benefits, education, and online services.

• Reduced electronic waste by reusing donated technology. [goodthings...dation.org], [goodthings...dation.org]

How to access it

If you're looking for a device, the best route is to contact a local digital inclusion organisation or search for support through the Good Things Foundation's local support finder. The Foundation itself does not generally provide devices directly to individuals. [goodthings...dation.org]

More information is available from the Good Things Foundation National Device Bank page: https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/our-services/national-device-bank [goodthings...dation.org]

If you're in Newcastle or North Tyneside contact Park View Project 0191 4661667

Volunteers in our digital drop-in