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The UK Government has today invited organisations to sign-up to a new charter, which is being backed by Deloitte, Vodafone (VodafoneThree), BT and others. The charter encourages members to change how they manage and dispose of IT assets, with the aim of increasing device donations to the 1.5 million people who currently lack access to a basic laptop, tablet or smartphone.
Just to recap. At the start of 2025 the UK government proposed to address the lack of digital inclusion in some areas via a series of “urgent actions” that it hoped would “begin fixing digital exclusion“. The Digital Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) thus includes various measures, such as funding for local initiatives targeted to the most digitally-excluded groups (e.g. the elderly and low-income households) and partnering with the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) to provide laptops to people who are digitally excluded.
The new ‘IT Reuse for Good‘ charter forms part of this effort and is seeking for more organisations to sign-up, donate their old “pre-loved tech” and then work with their chosen charity partner to re-distribute the devices to those who need it the most.
The charter itself essentially sets out the principles for organisations to adhere to, including ensuring devices are securely wiped, professionally refurbished and fit-for-purpose so they can be provided free of charge to those who need them.
Telecoms Minister, Sir Chris Bryant, said:
“Britain is leading the way when it comes to technological advancements with everyday essentials such as doctor’s appointments and job applications becoming increasingly digital. But to maximise the full potential of technology, we need to bring everyone along with us on this journey.
This Charter represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a more sustainable approach to technology. By working together with industry and charity partners, we’re helping more people access the digital tools they need to improve their lives while reducing harmful electronic waste.”
Over the years we’ve seen lots of initiatives aimed at improving digital skills, re-using old technology (routers to Smartphones etc.) and getting more people online via mobile data or fixed broadband lines. For example, Virgin Media and O2 have been inviting customers to donate their old phones so that they can then be refurbished and distributed to “digitally excluded” people for some time now.
However, the move to centralise this a bit more through the government’s new charter is a welcome step, although it remains to be seen what sort of impact it will have. Signatories will be expected to donate their first device within 6 months of signing the charter. Progress will be monitored by self-reporting every six months.