The Big Issue has announced a partnership with technology company Lenovo to supply refurbished laptops to charities and social enterprises across the UK. The initiative aims to support day-to-day operations, increase efficiency, and improve service delivery to local communities.
Recipients include a charity tackling digital poverty in Greater Manchester, a prison rehabilitation programme, and a London-based filmmaker with an outreach programme teaching young people about film production. The Big Issue hopes the move will help communities access online services and unlock the benefits of artificial intelligence.
According to the Big Issue, around one in five low-income households in England have no internet access, highlighting a significant digital divide. Russell Blackman, managing director of Big Issue Invest, the organisation's social investment arm, said: 'This technology will open up opportunities for them in a number of ways, from helping their staff expand their reach, to giving their beneficiaries access to the digital world.'
Aidan Griffin of Lenovo UK & Ireland added: 'Through our partnership with the Big Issue, refurbished laptops are reaching inspirational organisations across the UK, delivering practical tools while advancing sustainability and digital equity. This initiative is an important step in tackling digital exclusion.'
The partnership coincides with the 20th anniversary of Big Issue Invest, which has been investing in life-changing organisations since 2005. The laptops are Lenovo Certified Refurbished, contributing to sustainability by giving devices a second life.
