WIREDGOV

Digital access continues to shape opportunity – determining how young people learn, apply for jobs, and interact with the services that underpin everyday life. Yet across the UK, too many are still excluded by the cost of a device and the lack of digital support.

In response, the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) has expanded its Tech4Youth programme to Walney Island, offering young people aged 11 to 19 a free laptop to keep, alongside practical help to build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly digital society.

This expansion builds on earlier delivery across the Solway Coast and reflects a growing demand for local, targeted action to tackle digital exclusion – particularly in rural and coastal areas, where limited access to technology continues to constrain opportunity.

Tech4Youth addresses this directly. By combining access to a high-quality device with hands-on digital skills support, the programme helps remove everyday barriers and enables young people to move forward on their own terms.

Les Mcleese, a long-standing youth worker and community leader on Walney Island, said:

“Having worked with young people in Barrow and on Walney Island for over two decades, I have seen how access to technology can open doors. Many young people have smartphones, but that is not enough for homework, job applications, or accessing essential services. Families often cannot afford a laptop, and that creates real limitations. Tech4Youth gives young people the chance to have their own device – something that can truly support their learning, confidence and future.”

The programme is delivered by the DPA in partnership with Voneus and the Macquarie Group Foundation. On Walney Island, it is being implemented with the support of local organisations to ensure it reaches those most likely to benefit.

Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance, said:

“Digital access is now fundamental to participation in modern life. Too many young people are held back because they lack the right device, the right skills, or a reliable connection.

Through Tech4Youth, we are helping to change that – starting with the communities most affected. By working in partnership with Macquarie and Voneus, and by listening to the lived realities of families on Walney Island, we are creating practical pathways for inclusion. I encourage any family who may benefit to explore the programme and apply.”

Christopher Traggio, CEO of Voneus, added:

“We are proud that Voneus can support the expansion of the Tech4Youth initiative to Walney Island in partnership with the Macquarie Group Foundation. Together with the Digital Poverty Alliance, we are working to bridge the digital divide, ensuring more people have the online access they need for education, work, and essential services.”

Rachel Engel, Regional Head, Macquarie Group Foundation (EMEA), said:

“Supporting the digital divide in a rural part of the UK while engaging with our business partner, Voneus, was an exciting opportunity to demonstrate a shared value approach. Partnering with the Digital Poverty Alliance meant we were able to use the expertise of this non-profit to support our efforts to help more families get online.”

Research led by the DPA has shown that access to a personal device can have a meaningful impact on learning. In one set of findings, 92 per cent of parents reported that their child was more motivated to learn after receiving a laptop – underscoring how even simple, practical interventions can shift educational outcomes.

One parent from the Solway Coast shared:

“My eldest daughter is currently revising for her exams for nurse cadets to pass her exams and can now have access to a laptop through this amazing organisation. I would definitely recommend any teens to apply for this as the laptop is in immaculate condition.”

Applications for Tech4Youth on Walney Island are now open. Apply here.