A LOCAL community interest company will use new funding to help expand its service and ‘bridge the digital divide’.
Tameside Community Computers CIC launched in August 2022, born on the back of the community work carried out by ZenTec Network Solutions during the Covid pandemic.
During that challenging time, the directors of the Dukinfield-based IT support company identified the need to utilise their skills to help those who found themselves in ‘digital poverty’ when forced to stay at home for work and school.
Tameside Community Computers CIC refurbishes laptops, desktop computers, tablets and mobile phones that have been donated and distributes them for free to those most in need in the local community.
The organisation is now one of 21 community groups across Greater Manchester to benefit from a slice of £220,000 from the Recycle for Greater Manchester Community Fund.
Now in its fourth year, the fund – managed by the Greater Manchester Environment Fund – supports innovative projects tackling waste and encouraging reuse and recycling.
All of the successful projects this year – chosen from a pool of nearly 70 applications – are receiving money from the fund for the first time, securing between £2,000 and £20,000 each.
Tameside Community Computers CIC will invest its portion by expanding into Oldham, collecting unwanted devices via the borough’s network of libraries and connecting them with those without a way to get online.
“This funding award will mean so much to, not only us, but the people we support,” said Director Mike Brooks.
“It will mean that we can cover a greater number of collections that will result in more refurbishments and support to our clients.
“It will also result in fewer devices going to waste, as we will be able to advertise in more places and for a greater period of time.
“It’s a win-win for everyone and we will be reducing our carbon footprint even more. Many thanks for the award.”
Councillor Tom Ross, Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Lead for the Environment, Waste and Recycling, added: “I’m pleased to see the appetite for this funding is still strong and that we have been able to support another round of excellent projects.
“Greater Manchester is full of passionate and dedicated people who are inspiring their communities to take action to reuse, repair and recycle household waste.
“I look forward to seeing these projects progress and help us reach our sustainability goals.”
To find out more about Tameside Community Computers CIC or to donate a device, visit https://www.tamesidecc.org/ for further details.