ludlowthompson supports community laptop sponsorship scheme

Initiative aims to provide 300 local community members with access to laptops and the internet

The internet has become more important than ever during the coronavirus pandemic. With many of us continuing to work from home and unable to see family and friends, the internet has played a vital role in keeping us connected with the world. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to laptops or other means of getting online. That’s why ludlowthompson and its local employability partner at Wesley’s Chapel & Leysian Mission are participating in the Shoreditch 300 Challenge.

The challenge aims to raise £200,000 to give 300 members of the local community access to laptops and the internet for an entire year.

So far, Hackney & Islington Citizens, a branch of community organising charity Citizens UK, have 138 laptops. These will be distributed amongst 78 households, and tech companies headquartered in Shoreditch, like Amazon and Box, are helping a further 60 households through cash donations and used laptops. 

Schools, faith and community groups near our East London offices have set up a Digital Mutual Aid Group for Shoreditch. They plan to help 300 people in need who lack laptops and internet needed for school, work and support networks.

Last November, the community group launched a video letter on LinkedIn addressed to tech leaders from Amazon, Box, Plaid, Microsoft Reactor and Inmarsat. This included stories of how the internet has helped keep family and community life together, but highlighted the fact that some members of the community are unable to afford laptops or data plans.

Anthony Harmer, member of Hackney & Islington Citizens and Chief Executive of ELATT, a digital skills education charity, said: “All our students have found the last few months really tough. We’ve worked hard to ensure student access to laptops and the internet, keeping education attainment high. But there is still a huge need for laptops and internet in our communities. Amazon and Box have made a positive contribution to our neighbourhood. I would strongly urge other tech companies to reach out to us and join in”.

Stephen Ludlow, Chairman of ludlowthompson says: “COVID-19 has highlighted access problems for many people in the capital. This means they are unable to stay connected with friends and family, continue education or even apply for employment.”

“ludlowthompson’s local Manger Fabian Akinola (pictured presenting a laptop to Wesley’s Chapel and Leysian Mission Minister Revd Stephen Cooper) has previously participated in an annual employability programme hosted by the Chapel and Mission and this year’s virtual initiative ensures people can still engage with employers for job opportunities as most recruitment processes are online at present.”

“This is a hugely worthwhile cause and helps our community members greatly, and we look forward to helping Citizens UK reach their goal.”

To find out more about the scheme, watch this video.

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