Voluntary and community groups, charities, higher education institutes and not-for-profit groups are invited to bid for free pre-owned Samsung Galaxy tab A tablets.
These devices have been returned to factory settings and can be used by people with minimal technology skills and could be used to connect older people, people with disabilities, people with physical or sensory needs or to improve mental health.
Each organisation in the Essex County Council area can bid for up to 50 devices for the use by adults over 18. Bids will open from 1 August and close on 31 August 2021. Bidders should demonstrate how they would use the devices to promote one or more of the following:
Digital inclusion
Digital skills
Prevent, reduce, delay social care need
Tackle social isolation
An evaluation of the bids will be undertaken by a panel and successful bidders will be notified week commencing 20 September 2021.
Devices will need to be collected by the successful organisations from an agreed location and organisations will be required to provide a case study within three months illustrating how the devices have been used to benefit users.
Councillor John Spence, Essex County Council’s Cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations and individuals to benefit from technology which will really make a difference to your community. They could be used to reduce social isolation and loneliness or to improve digital skills. We would love to hear your ideas!”
For more information visit Care Provider Information Hub – Latest Initiatives (livingwellessex.org) or email CareTecService@essex.gov.uk for an application form.