As the Centre for Voluntary Services in North Hertfordshire and Stevenage, we champion the efforts of charities, community and faith groups, social enterprises and more.

In doing so, we recognise groups and causes that appear under-served, and on occasion create new services to bridge that gap. Staying Connected is one such project.

Staying Connected works to reduce digital poverty throughout North Hertfordshire and Stevenage, making the digital world a reality for everyone.

Digital poverty happens when people do not have the equipment, Wi-Fi and/or skills and/or knowledge to make access the internet.

Digital poverty is defined by The Digital Poverty Alliance as 'The inability to interact with the online world fully, when, where and how an individual needs to'.

They report around 11 million people in the UK to lack the digital skills needed for everyday life.

The effects of digital poverty include increasing inequalities, isolation, financial poverty, unemployment due to lack of access to opportunities, information, services, and shopping.

Staying Connected help people in need access health appointments and information, as well as keeping in contact with friends, families and communities.

The equipment also helps people apply for work and continue with their education, volunteering, and interests.

Through the help of donations, Staying Connected provides recycled and refurbished laptops, tablets and mobile phones to people in need.

As well as providing start up Wi-Fi, they can also arrange free six-month sim cards to those living in digital poverty.

Through the help of Volunteer Digital Champions the service provides free training to those receiving equipment, and to those who have their own equipment but still need help.

If you would like to make a referral for someone to receive equipment and/or support from a Volunteer Digital Champion, please contact stayingconnected@nhcvs.org.uk or call 01462 689408.

You’ll be asked for the completion of a referral form by a health, social care and/or housing professional who understands your needs.

All donated equipment is securely cleaned and reimaged before being distributed to those experiencing digital poverty.

To donate IT equipment, such as old laptops, tablets and mobile phones or enquire about becoming a Volunteer Digital Champion contacting the team at stayingconnected@nhcvs.org.uk or call 01462 68940.

As the centre for volunteering services for North Herts and Stevenage, we equip community groups, charities and volunteers with the knowledge to thrive.

Learn more about how we help organisations reach their potential at www.nhcvs.org.uk.