Isle Of Wight MP Launches Drive To Tackle Digital Poverty With Device Donations

Richard Quigley, MP for Isle of Wight West, has launched a new initiative aimed at tackling digital poverty on the Island by encouraging local businesses to donate unused laptops and devices.

The campaign comes amid growing concern about the scale of digital exclusion locally.

Figures show more than 6,600 households on the Isle of Wight experience education deprivation, while over 3,500 households face employment deprivation, highlighting significant barriers to digital access.

The initiative aims to help bridge this digital divide by providing laptops and other devices to schools and community groups, improving access to online resources for those who are currently unable to connect.

As part of the drive, Mr Quigley has partnered with the Digital Poverty Alliance to support efforts to increase digital engagement across the Island.

Research has shown that despite strong broadband connectivity on the Isle of Wight, income deprivation and limited access to technology continue to prevent many families from fully engaging online.

This has created challenges in accessing essential services such as education, healthcare, banking and employment.

Richard Quigley said the findings were concerning, particularly as more services move online.

“The Digital Poverty Alliance has done excellent work across the country, and I’m grateful to CEO Elizabeth Anderson for taking up the challenge for the Island so quickly,” he said.

“The low levels of digital engagement are worrying. This campaign, which asks local businesses to donate unused laptops, will help schools and communities become better connected.”

Businesses are being encouraged to donate laptops, tablets and other devices that are no longer needed.

All donated equipment will be securely checked, wiped and restored before being distributed to schools and community organisations across the Isle of Wight.

Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance, said the partnership marked an important step in tackling digital inequality.

“Despite the Island’s strong broadband infrastructure, many families still face significant barriers to accessing essential online services,” she said.

“Providing access to laptops and devices helps create more equal opportunities for education, employment and access to vital services.”

The campaign highlights the growing link between income deprivation and digital exclusion on the Isle of Wight, with organisers hopeful the initiative will make a lasting difference to local communities.