|
If a friend has forwarded this email to you, you can subscribe to email updates about Coronavirus for people who live and work in the Bradford district.
Disadvantaged pupils to get free laptops for online lessons
Hundreds of children from disadvantaged backgrounds across the Bradford district are to receive free laptops and tablets to help them with home schooling during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Bradford Council has more than 2,151 computers to distribute to children to support them learning from home while schools remain closed to most pupils because of the pandemic.
As well as the laptops and tablets, the council also has 348 4G routers that will enable pupils from low-income families who don’t have the internet at home to get online.
The digital devices have been secured through a government scheme and the council will work with schools and other agencies to get them to eligible families who need them most. Children are eligible if they don't already have suitable equipment and either have a social worker or are care leavers, or are underprivileged Year 10 pupils who are due to take their GCSEs next year.
However, Bradford Council believes there are many more young people who don’t qualify for the government scheme but would benefit from having better access to technology so they are working with local businesses to donate devices to needy pupils.
Councillor Imran Khan, portfolio holder for education, employment and skills, said: “It is good news that we are able to get this vital equipment for children who really need it.
“Lockdown has highlighted digital inequality. Many of our most disadvantaged children normally rely on schools and libraries to access the internet. With these closed, they are struggling to get online.
“Schools and teachers have been doing brilliant work to keep pupils learning at home during this crisis but children without a laptop or tablet and easy access to the internet at home have been at a disadvantage.
“Distance learning should be accessible to all pupils while their schools are closed, regardless of their background.
“Although the government scheme is helping to get IT equipment to many of our most disadvantaged school pupils, it does not cover everyone and that is why we are asking businesses to help those not covered by the scheme.
“No child in the Bradford district should be disadvantaged by not having basic IT equipment and access to the internet.”
Do you need help or support?
 If you need help or have a particular need please ring and talk to one of our friendly team who will take some details and pass them onto the relevant service. Call 01274 431000.
We can help by:
- picking up shopping
- delivering a food parcel to eligible people
- ringing for a friendly chat
- problem solving
See our website for more information about local support and volunteering to help others.
Are you concerned about someone's safety?
If you have a concern about the safety of a child or a vulnerable adult, do not keep it to yourself. Report your concern on the Safer Bradford website. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Or call:
- For children 01274 435600 (01274 431010 out of office hours)
- For adults 01274 431077 (01274 431010 out of office hours)
- If someone is at immediate risk of harm call 999
Don’t think, “What if I’m wrong?”. Think, “What if I’m right!”
Stay at home as much as possible
- Work from home if you can
- Avoid public transport if possible
- Local parks and green spaces are available for your daily outdoor exercise
- Always keep your distance in public (at least 2 metres apart)
- Wash your hands regularly
- If you or anyone in your household has coronavirus symptoms, you must all self-isolate
See the latest Government guidance on staying alert and safe.
Stay safe while out for exercise
Please follow the Government’s advice when leaving your home for exercise and observe the 2 metre rule for staying a safe distance apart. For more information about where you can walk in the Bradford district, and how to stay safe while you do so, visit our public green space and rights of way guidance page.
Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service
Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service if:
- you feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home
- your condition gets worse
- your symptoms do not get better after 7 days
Only call 111 if you cannot get help online.
Helpful links
UK Government guidance and support
NHS coronavirus advice and information
Bradford district coronavirus advice and information
Support for local businesses
|
