Dorset Council IT services have been updating old, disused laptops and working with schools to get them to pupils who do not have a laptop at home, to ensure everyone can access online learning and continue their education during home-schooling. More than 270 laptops have been reconditioned and the council also bought 30 mobile phones to help young people in care have video contact with their parents and friends. Volunteer group, Dorset Digital Champions, have also been helping young people and their families use the equipment provided.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said, “We’ve been overwhelmed with requests from school and children’s services staff for laptops to help children study.

“Not every child has things like laptops and we’re doing everything we can to make sure Dorset pupils have equal access to devices and the internet, so they can continue their learning at home during these unusual times. Our IT staff have done a terrific job so far with the old, disused council equipment, making sure we support our young learners and also help them stay in contact with family and friends.”

Following the recent government announcement that it would also provide IT support for year 10 students and those with social care needs, the council has also put in an order for 1,000 additional laptops to support more children and young people.