Thousands of residents are living in digital poverty, with no access to computers, smart phones and other devices.

Out of its 10,000 clients at Age UK Ealing, only 3% of those are ‘digitally engaged’ (able to access, and likely to use, the internet), according to Reginald Parkinson, the charity’s chief executive.

To address this inequality, it has set up a digital inclusion programme to support people in learning to use the internet, stay safe online, access public services and more, primarily at its HQ at Greenford Community Centre.

And, to help it do this, Ealing-based computer manufacturing company MSI has donated some new PCs to the organisation, after contacting Around Ealing.

Reginald said: “We’re very grateful to MSI for identifying us a local provider to donate to. These computers will be life changing for our service users. It will help give them access to online services, get to know how to use these devices, and help to reduce loneliness and isolation.”

‘Giving back locally’

Adrian Liu, head of commercial at MSI Computers in Acton, said: “We’re delighted to support the Age UK digital inclusion project. Our head office is in Taiwan and the culture there is to respect and work with older generations. MSI is not just here to make money, but we want to give back to the local communities as well.”

Age UK Ealing introduced its digital programme at its headquarters in Greenford last year. It runs a 6-week courses for beginners and improvers, and there are drop-in sessions you can attend too. For information, call 0208 578 2712 and press option 8, or email digitalinclusion@ageukealing.co.uk

Courses also run in Ealing Central Library and Perivale Library. Age UK Ealing also has plans to roll out its digital programme to other towns.

You can help

Ealing Council launched a scheme earlier this year whereby residents can donate unwanted devices for them to be safely wiped, refurbished and donated to young people in the borough who are digitally excluded.