Greater Manchester Supports Digitally Isolated Pupils

Poorest pupils across Greater Manchester to receive laptops to stay digitally connected.

08:10 02 May 2020

The Greater Manchester combined authority is set to invest £150,000 to purchase more than 500 laptops for Year 10 pupils who are struggling to get online during the coronavirus lockdown. The scheme will help pupils studying for their GCSES and those who have a social worker or have left care. 

 

Mayor Andy Burhman said that eligible pupils, which account for nearly a fifth of learners in the city-region, could fall further behind their peers without extra support. 

 

He said: "Our young people deserve every chance to fulfill their potential.

 

"Having the tools to continue their education and positively engage in their communities is integral to that during these challenging times. 

 

"There are many young people in our city-region who have become digitally excluded in recent weeks, unable to complete schoolwork online or connect digitally with family and friends outside of their home." 

 

Meanwhile, Mo Isap, co-chair of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership, expressed gratitude to businesses and individuals who are supporting the scheme. 

 

He said: "We are so proud to see the countless selfless acts from businesses across the city-region that are helping people get through these incredibly difficult times.

 

"We know the challenges businesses are facing but if your business can help to provide laptops, sim cards, portable hotspots, dongles or financial donations to the fund, please come forward."