Free computer or Internet access for a year for children 7-14

[nj2006]

There is now a scheme to give lower income families with children access to their own computer at home. After being trialled in 3 boroughs last year, the scheme has since gone nationwide and is now open to everyone and applying is simple.

The 3 criteria you need to meet are:

1) The child you are claiming for must be attending a state school
2) You must be in receipt of child benefit
AND
3a) Currently claiming free school meals
OR
3b) You must be entitled to one of the following:
Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
Income Support
Child Tax Credit (but not Working Tax Credit)
Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit but not Savings Credit)
Income-based Employment Support Allowance
Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999


3 packages are available to apply for:

1) Laptop or desktop computer and relevant software, with full tech support for 1 year
2) Internet access for 1 year
3) Both of the above combined

To apply you need to ring the following number: 0800 877 8777.

You will then be sent an application form and receive a decision within 3 weeks of returning it.

If successful, you are given a card to the value of just over £500 which can be used at one of the scheme's nominated computer retailers to spend on either a laptop or a desktop. They also send you a list of which packages you can buy so you can choose one that best suits your needs. Not sure how the internet side of things works but again it would be with a nominated company.

There's also an extended area included in the scheme for Assistive Technology, that aims to enable children with disabilities and learning difficulties with specialist equipment and software.

Lastly, applications are being dealt with on a first come first served basis.

Becta Home Access