A low-cost computer scheme is being piloted across South Gloucestershire in a move at helping targeted groups access the internet more easily.<\/p>\n
A range of starter desktop and laptop PCs are being made available to anyone who is on low income, receiving certain benefits or experiencing other disadvantages.<\/p>\n
The equipment, which is available through an IT provider is professionally refurbished, ready to use and includes a 12-month warranty.<\/p>\n
The aim of the scheme is to help people who wouldn\u2019t otherwise be able to afford a PC with a view to using it to look for work or access online training and learning.<\/p>\n
Councillor Heather Goddard, Chair of the Communities Committee, said: \u201cNot owning or having ready access to a computer can be obstacle to people who are looking to find work or to acquire new skills or knowledge through online learning.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis pilot scheme will help those unable to afford a computer through subsidised and supported assistance.\u201d<\/p>\n
Prices start from around \u00a385 which includes a fully-licensed version of Microsoft\u00ae Windows 7, Microsoft\u00ae Office 2010, 12-month warranty and free delivery.<\/p>\n
Residents must receive at least one of the following to be eligible for these special Microsoft\u00ae Office system prices:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Income Support
\n\u2022 Jobseekers Allowance
\n\u2022 Pension Credit
\n\u2022 Disability Living Allowance\/Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
\n\u2022 Attendance Allowance\/Constant Attendance Allowance
\n\u2022 Carer\u2019s Allowance
\n\u2022 Incapacity Benefit\/Employment and Support Allowance
\n\u2022 disability element of working tax credit
\nRegistered UK charities can also take advantage of this special deal.<\/p>\n
For anyone who meets any of the following criteria there are computers available without Microsoft\u00ae Office 2010 but still including Microsoft Windows 7 and starting at around \u00a3100:<\/p>\n
\u2022 65 years or older To take advantage of this special deal please visit any of the organisations listed below. You will be asked to complete a simple application form and may also be asked for proof of eligibility for the scheme.<\/p>\n To order you will need either a valid PayPal account, credit or debit card or, alternatively, you can pay in cash at any of our libraries.<\/p>\n Assistance with ordering is available at these organisations. All of our libraries also offer an introductory session on setting up your new computer and a range of free online courses to help you through the basics. Any South Gloucestershire library<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 receiving means-tested benefit
\n\u2022 are an unpaid carer
\n\u2022 are registered disabled
\n\u2022 living on a low income
\n\u2022 have a child entitled to free school meals
\nMore information on the scheme is available at https:\/\/www.southglos.gov.uk\/lowcostcomputer<\/a><\/p>\n
\nFor more information and how to order visit:<\/p>\n