Gifting digital essentials
Play a part in getting
people connected
How gifted devices make a difference
Access to technology can open doors to opportunities many of us take for granted. For people experiencing homelessness or isolation, a laptop, tablet or smartphone can be a lifeline – helping them apply for jobs, access essential services, stay in touch with loved ones and generally enriching their lives. Our Digital Inclusion service makes these opportunities possible by giving out devices to those who need them most, and for this, we rely largely on donations.
What we accept
We welcome donations of basic mobile phones, smartphones, laptops and tablets from both individuals and organisations. Laptops and tablets are needed most urgently. To make sure your device can be used quickly and safely, please ensure:
Devices are fully in working order
Devices are no more than four years old
Include power cables with your donation
Remove SIM card and perform a factory reset
We cannot refurbish or erase data ourselves
We also accept working monitor screens that are less than 4 years old.
How to donate
Our Donations Hub
You can bring suitable devices directly to our Donations Hub:
Unit 2, Dominion Trade Centre, Dominion Way West, Worthing, BN14 8NT
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, 9am – 2pm
For any queries, please email: digitalinclusion@turning-tides.org.uk
What happens to gifted devices?
Devices are passed on directly to clients to own through their key workers or at IT-drop-ins. Each person can receive one device and the choice is made together with their key worker to ensure it’s the most appropriate for their circumstances. For example, laptops and tablets are usually offered to people who are already housed, while mobile phones may be more suitable for those in insecure accommodation.
Having access to technology can make a huge difference – it might help someone reconnect with loved ones, apply for a job, or book a counselling session. Your gifted device can truly be a lifeline.
When I was at school I never had computers – you get some young lads who go ‘ding ding’ and they just know what they’re doing!
This is the first time I’ve had a tablet. It’s like another limb now! I got the NHS app and put all the appointments on my tablet now. It reminds me. I have my bank account and app on the tablet and can check my account and finances.
I can use it to facetime my seven grandchildren and sons. To have a big screen and see the kids and family… they’re miles away otherwise. I’ve had a new grandson just after Christmas and I’ve seen him online – it’s lovely and means a lot.
I like the flexibility. I can take it in a bag, I can do more things than on my phone. Plus my eyes aren’t so good nowadays and the bigger screen helps. I’ve got apps to watch TV. I put it at the end of the bed and can move it around. It’s more portable than a TV! It’s good for my mental health.”
– Kevin on his experience of receiving a donated tablet