The National Device Bank is powered by Good Things Foundation. It provides refurbished laptops, mobile phones and tablets to individuals who may not have access to a device.
The National Device Bank was originally created in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, when the internet became a lifeline to stay connected with loved ones. We worked in collaboration with FutureDotNow and the National Digital Inclusion Network to distribute devices to those who didn’t have access to their own.
The pandemic permanently changed the way our society relies on the digital connection, and still 1.5 million people don't have access to a smartphone, tablet or laptop. So the National Device Bank has evolved and remained a permanent fixture in our digital inclusion support.
The devices we distribute are generously donated from public and private sector organisations, who contribute their end-of-life tech for reuse instead of disposal.
The incredible impact of the National Device Bank
Over 40 organisations have donated tech.
Almost 10,000 people have received a device.
98% of device recipients feel happier, healthier and/or better off.
Nearly 100,000kg of electronic waste has been reused instead of disposed.
How does the National Device Bank work?
Currently the National Device Bank only accepts donations of more than 50 devices, such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets, from private and public sector organisations.
We cannot accept individual device donations at this time. For individuals or organisations with fewer than 50 devices, you can check out alternative options with our friends at Recycle Your Electricals.
Donated devices are securely refurbished by our national tech partner and accredited refurbishment organisation, Reconome. Devices are paired with free connectivity data from the National Databank and distributed across the National Digital Inclusion Network, getting directly into the hands of people who can’t access their own.
Why organisations should donate devices to the National Device Bank
From collection to refurbishment and redistribution, the National Device Bank is a cost-neutral and innovative solution for organisations to discard their IT equipment. Opposed to traditional IT asset disposal, donating devices:
- Tackles e-waste and supports the environment - taking devices away from landfill and putting them into the hands of people who need them
- Helps to give back to the community - it’s socially responsible!
How to get refurbished devices as a community organisation
If you’re an organisation wanting devices for people in your community, you need to be part of the National Digital Inclusion Network.
How to get a refurbished device for yourself
At the moment, we’re not able to provide devices to people directly.
However, the friendly local community organisations in our National Digital Inclusion Network may be able to help. If you’re an individual looking for help to access your own device or a device for a loved one, take a look at our map to find support near you.
