Donate IT celebrates 2,000^th device donation

The charity Donate IT has reached a significant milestone, donating its 2,000^th refurbished digital device to the Somerset community. Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic by Simon Barfoot of Blackmore UK – a company specialising in e-waste management – the initiative was created to help local people, including children, access digital communication for free when many lacked laptops or tablets for online learning and staying connected.

Representatives from supporting organisations and community groups gathered at Wincanton Memorial Hall to celebrate, joined by Sarah Dyke MP, a long-time supporter and now patron of the scheme. The project has refurbished a wide range of technology, from computers to smartwatches. With 50 drop-off points across Somerset and Dorset, residents can donate unwanted devices for refurbishment and redistribution to those in need. Details on what can be donated and where to drop off items are available on the charity’s website.

Most technology is discarded despite being suitable for reuse or recycling. Donate IT not only repurposes devices but also recycles valuable components, including precious metals like gold, helping to fund the charity alongside financial donations. Contributions can be made via their GoFundMe page. Every device reused benefits both the recipient and the environment by reducing waste and the demand for new resources.

Simon said:

“It was such a pleasure to celebrate our Somerset-based Charity, Donate IT, reaching the amazing milestone of its 2,000^th refurbished device donation. As Founder and Head Trustee, seeing more than 70 representatives from our partner organisations, supporters, and beneficiary groups come together made the event a powerful reminder that Donate IT’s milestone is, above all, a shared achievement made possible by our collective efforts.

“I was especially grateful to our honoured guests, Sarah Dyke MP and Ted Allen Esq., the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, whose thoughtful speeches added real significance to the occasion. Their presence highlighted the importance of our mission, not only in reducing digital poverty across the Southwest but also in supporting a more sustainable future.

“Through responsible reuse for social good, circular-economy practices, and the recovery of precious metals, Donate IT continues to show that digital inclusion and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. I’m very proud of what we have achieved together, and I look forward to building on this momentum as we continue our work to ensure technology benefits both people and the planet.”