Case Study: Empowering communities through NEEDAST laptop donations

Digital Essex, through their Bridging the Digital Divide device donation scheme, has donated 75 laptops to NEEDAST - North East Essex Digital Access Support Team. This team offers a free service in Essex to help people gain confidence and basic skills in using today's smart technology. They provide various support methods, including virtual and community-based events, drop-in sessions, and one-to-one support. 

To mark Earth Day 2025, NEEDAST Project and Team Manager, Rachaelle Litwin, shares how these laptops are helping the community.  

Case Study 1: AMM 

• Profile: Male, Age Range: 18-25 
• Challenges: AMM cannot speak and has other disabilities that make moving difficult. English is not his first language. 
• Impact: The laptop has given AMM a way to communicate. He can watch and play programmes to learn English better. He can talk to family members in other countries and doctors. The laptop has given AMM new opportunities, and he hopes to use a programme that will help him speak. 

Case Study 2: KE 

• Profile: Male, Age Range: 75-85
• Challenges: KE has limited money and finds it hard to buy devices. He lives alone and knows that life has changed around him.
• Impact: KE is learning how to use a laptop to improve his life. He watches football and sends emails. He has updated his phone and now talks to family and friends in ways he couldn't before. 

Case Study 3: S 

• Profile: Female, Age Range: 50-60
• Challenges: S is shy and lacks confidence. She doesn't have much money to buy technology.
• Impact: S is using a laptop on loan and attending a 12-week learning programme. She is gaining confidence and may attend more sessions. S is making progress on her digital journey. 

The donation of laptops by Digital Essex is making a significant impact on the lives of residents in the county. By providing access to technology, individuals like AMM, KE, and S are building essential digital skills, gaining confidence, and feeling more included in their community. This initiative is helping bridge the digital divide, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in today's digital world. 

If you would like more information on device donations or are a business looking to donate devices, please contact the Digital Essex team.