Freemasons launch ‘Tech for Good’ scheme

Some of the donated devices ready for refurbishment

Following a recent appeal for computer equipment for young people who are missing out on online learning due to a lack of equipment, the Rochdale District Freemasons have been working to remedy this.

Martin Ross, Rochdale District Freemasons Communications Officer, has set up a scheme to accept and refurbish old laptops and tablets before distributing them to local and nearby schools.

Within 24 hours, Martin received 25 devices from around the local community. With the help of Nigel Foran at Tech Direct computer repairs, as well as a small team of Freemason volunteers, all personal data has been cleared from the devices, which have also been updated with new operating systems.

Working to get the devices out to schools and to the young people in need as quickly as possible, Martin and the small team of volunteers have already distributed four laptops and tablets to St Joseph’s RC Primary Academy in Todmorden.

John Sutcliffe from St Joseph’s said “We cannot thank Martin enough for organising this tech drive and to those who have donated IT equipment. These donations mean that all of our students can access online learning during this lockdown and will have long term access to online resources.”

Doug Smith, Rochdale Freemasons District Chair, said: “The coronavirus pandemic highlighted the digital divide that exists between those young people who have their own computer and those who do not have any access to one at home at all. Quick reaction campaigns and action like this will make a massive difference to young people in our community.”

Freemasonry is one of the world’s oldest and largest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. Its roots lie in the traditions and ceremonies of the medieval stonemasons who built cathedrals and castles.

To donate a laptop or tablet to the scheme, please complete the donation form and a volunteer will be in touch to arrange collection.