Sheffield MP backs laptop campaign and thanks people for stepping in where the Government has failed

The Laptops for Kids campaign aims to provide free laptops with safe internet access to young people in the city who are currently without a device.

Launched by The Star, WANdisco and Learn Sheffield in September, laptop donations are already helping children keep up with their school work.

Olivia Blake, Labour MP for Sheffield Hallam, said: “The coronavirus crisis - and the increase in online learning - has only exacerbated the huge existing inequalities young people face in our education system. One in ten children have no access to a computer. That means 1.77 million young people across the UK are excluded from online lessons. So it’s amazing to see everyone in Sheffield come together like this, to make sure every pupil has access to a laptop at home that needs one.

“Thank you to everyone in Sheffield who is taking part in this campaign - I will continue to press the Government on this, so that campaigns like this aren’t necessary in the future.

“When national policies are failing us, it is great to see the people of Sheffield step in to fill the gap, and make sure no young person is denied access to education because they don’t have access to a laptop at home.”

Other Sheffield MPs have also urged companies and individuals to donate their old devices.

To support the Laptops for Kids campaign and to organise a donation of any unused laptops, tablets, desktops and chargers, visit www.LTFK.co.uk

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.