Community Computers

The Community Computers scheme has now been in place for a year and has donated 250 computers to the local community.  The scheme, which is ongoing and self funding, relies on equipment recycled by Westminster City Council.    

Part of the Westminster Council Living City programme, Community Computers distributed 250 computers to 49 charities and 10 individuals between May 2009 and May 2010.  It has also been shortlisted for the Digital Inclusion award in the UK Industry Awards 2010.

Westminster City Council computers need upgrading every three to four years.  Old equipment, which is still suitable for the internet and for running office software, has simply become too expensive to maintain by the council or too old to run major systems.  For voluntary groups however, they have become a fantastic free resource.  Before being given away, they are security checked and cleaned of data, before being loaded with software and offered for reuse to eligible volunteer groups or individuals.

Eligible groups must be classed as a charity or a not for profit organisation and be able to show how their service or activity meets the needs of people living, working or studying in Westminster.  Councillor Colin Barrow, Leader of Westminster City Council visited Pursuing Independent Paths (PIP), in January 2010, a project which works with adults with learning disabilities.  According to the Director of Pursuing Independent Paths, the equipment donated by Community Computers "will enhance the quality of services that we already run.  It goes a long way to ensure our work will stay at its current high standard.”

Due to its success, other local authorities and organisations are being contacted and encouraged to donate their computers to the scheme as there is a waiting list for people who would like to sign up.  Other initiatives run by Westminster City Council include a regular IT Support Forum where organisations can attend and exchange information regarding IT issues.  

• Find out more about Community Computers, visit their website
• If you'd like to share your Promise in Action, why not get in touch?