The Association of British Insurers (ABI) is urging all companies – and individuals – in the sector to donate PCs and other equipment to UK schoolchildren living in ‘digital poverty’ during lockdown.
Integrated agency WPNC has created a video on behalf of the ABI to highlight the appeal. The film targets insurance professionals on social media, persuading them to get involved in the appeal – Computers4Schools – to help children who have no access to a computer, vital for home learning.
The immediate goal is to deliver 10,000 computers to help schools level the playing field for all children. With thousands of firms involved directly and indirectly in and supporting the insurance industry, and more than 100,000 people employed directly or indirectly in the industry, the objective is to provide immediate help now, combined with a longer term commitment, to ensure no child’s education is hindered by a lack of access to the right technology.
According to Ofcom estimates, between 1.14 million and 1.78 million children in the UK (9%) do not have home access to a laptop, desktop or tablet.
Last month, the Government said it had bought another 300,000 laptops and tablets to allow disadvantaged pupils to learn from home, after pressure from campaigners. It brings the total number of devices being made available by the Department for Education to 1.3 million. Even so, concerns remain.
ABI director general Huw Evans said: “As every day goes by these children risk being disadvantaged compared to other pupils.
“The insurance industry is coming together to assist with this urgent matter. We are asking firms and individuals to donate either new or used technology or financial support.”
Surplus equipment can be given to Lloyds of London. It will then distribute the technology to primary and secondary schools that need it most.
The Worshipful Company of Insurers Charitable Trust is also taking financial donations as part of the appeal.
More information on the Computers4Schools campaign is available on the organisation’s website>
Related stories
WPNC Digital builds carers’ tool for civil service charity
Macmillan revamps memorial site with WPNC Digital
WPNC launches ‘emergency ad’ scheme for charities
WPNC success fuels new Children with Cancer activity
WPNC rekindles relationship with Children with Cancer
Prostate Cancer UK donations soar with WPNC platform
WPNC revamps web strategy for armed forces charity
