ReBoot IT
About us
ReBoot IT is a volunteer run computer refurbishing project with the aim of increasing digital inclusion across Basingstoke and Deane.
The project started during the Covid-19 lockdowns when we supported local schools and colleges by donating computers to disadvantaged pupils so they could access online education. When schools reopened and the Government laptop scheme roll-out took place there was no longer such a demand for online education. We engaged with local charities to find out how we could continue to help and discovered that there are a significant number of vulnerable adults and children in the area whose lives could be improved with access to their own computers at home.
Contact Us
To contact us via email – rebootit@bvaction.org.uk
Referrals to the scheme
Referrals need to be made via a charity, community group or other non-profit organisation. If you work for an organisation and would like to find out more about us we would love to hear from you.
We aim to support people who fall into the following categories and are unable to purchase their own devise, we don’t fund or organise internet connection –
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- Loneliness and Isolation
- Physical / Learning Disabilities
- Mental Health Issues
- Seeking employment
- Older people (over 75)
- Education and training
- Carers (unpaid)
- People who have recently been rehomed after experiencing homelessness
If you are unsure if someone you support falls under the above criteria, please do contact us as this list is purely for guidance.
How can I donate computer equipment to the project?
We rely on donations of unwanted computers and are grateful for donations from individuals and local businesses.
As we are limited in storage space we regretfully cannot currently accept desktop computers except for Apple Macs as we have a charity currently in need of Apple devices.
We are currently in need of laptops, tablets, webcams and mice. We wipe all data from devices before they are refurbished.
If you have anything to donate then please contact us to arrange for us to collect the items (we have volunteers who can collect directly from you if preferable) or for dropping off.
Impact of the project
“The re-boot it programme has been amazing for my clients…… I work with women with complex needs, so having a laptop enables their engagement with many services, especially in these times of COVID as so much has moved online. One of my ladies uses her laptop to join groups with addiction services and also joins online art groups. Another uses it for job searching and one other, who is very isolated due to her anxiety, is able to connect with the outside world.
This is a fantastic life changing initiative. Thank you.”
How you can support us
We rely on donations and grant funding to run the project, if you would like to make a donation you can do so by going to www.thegoodexchange.com and entering ‘ReBoot IT’ into the search box. Alternatively click on the button below.
Donate via Good Exchange
We are also members of the fantastic Basingstoke and Deane Community Lottery, and our page can be found at www.bandcommunitylottery.co.uk/support/reboot-it or click the button below.
Support us via the Community Lottery