Help give computer access to communities in Tower Hamlets

I’ve always built my own computers (the only way I could afford something that edits big video files).

In an attempt to turn this useless skill into something useful, I’m running a free course for people who don’t have access to a computer of their own. It’ll be in East London in August, via a community repair cafe and I’ll post full details here when I have them.

PLEASE HELP ⚡️

Over the next month, I’m trying to get 20 fully working desktop computers together. Big offices, companies, IT departments frequently swap out large quantities of perfectly usable computers because they need something better, but those computers could be a lifeline to someone who has no access. If you work in at IT department, or you work in an org with an IT person, please please tell them about the project and ask if they can get in touch.

If you don’t have access to any of the above, then please help by sharing this.

WHY IT MATTERS

It goes without saying, but computer and internet access is a basic utility that, in the UK, hundreds of thousands of people are excluded from because of cost. The cheapest and most sustainable way to access this is a desktop computer - they can be upgraded easily and can last 10 years or longer (and they’re less likely to get lost or stolen). If the past couple of years have taught us anything, it’s that every school child should have easy access at home; that a computer can be the start of a new job or a skill; a way to keep in touch with friends; the device you’ll use to write that novel or at the very least watch that film everyone’s talking about.
Through the free course we’re going to teach 10-20 people how to build and repair desktop computers so that they can benefit themselves, but also teach people in their community. I’d like everyone who takes part to be able to take home a working computer that they built.

WHAT WE NEED

Fully functioning desktop computers which have been in operation within the past two years. People on the course will learn how to disassemble and assemble the computer, but need to start with something that basically works if the course is to be manageable. We’re also not looking for laptops as they’re not very upgradeable. The best source will be a workplace, although if you use a desktop at home and you’re replacing it obviously we’d be extremely grateful for the old one. We can collect the computer from you anywhere within London (the workshop will be in Tower Hamlets, East London).

And if you know someone who might benefit from it, please let them know too

THANK YOU 🙏