Got an Old Phone or Laptop? Essex Scheme Aims to Help Improve Digital Access

Residents across Essex are being encouraged to donate unused laptops, tablets and mobile phones as part of a scheme designed to help improve digital access for children and young people.

Essex County Council is asking households to check drawers and cupboards for old devices that could be refurbished and put back into use.

Giving devices a second life

Donated devices are either refurbished or responsibly recycled, with usable technology helping to improve digital access for children and young people across Essex.

The scheme aims to ensure more people are able to get online for schoolwork, communication, and everyday tasks.

Helping people — and reducing waste

As well as supporting digital inclusion, the initiative also helps reduce electronic waste by ensuring devices are reused wherever possible.

Devices that cannot be reused are responsibly recycled.

How to get involved

Residents who would like to donate devices or find out more can contact the team by email directly:

device.donation@essex.gov.uk

A simple way to make a difference

With many households holding onto unused tech, even a single device could help improve access to essential online services.

If you’ve got an old phone or laptop tucked away, it could be more useful than you think.

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