Bristol Waste’s IT Reuse scheme is transforming lives in Bristol

April 2025 has been another remarkable month for our It Reuse: Digital Inclusion Scheme, with donations making a real difference across our community.

This month, the scheme has successfully delivered 26 laptops, 1 TV, and 2 games consoles to 8 different Bristol organisations. These pre-loved devices are now helping some of our community’s most vulnerable members.

These donations aren’t just about providing technology. They’re about creating opportunities, fostering independence, and improving quality of life for Bristol residents.

Below are 6 heart-warming ways we have positively impacted the community this month.

Making a Difference Where It Matters Most

1. Supporting domestic abuse survivors

Cheryl, Bristol Waste's IT Reuse Manager, stands next to Olivia Honeyhun from Next Link

Next Link received laptops, a TV, and gaming consoles from our IT Reuse team. These devices will help a family rebuild their lives after fleeing domestic abuse. These devices provide entertainment for children while parents handle essential tasks, making their challenging transition a little easier.

Cheryl, Bristol Waste's IT Reuse Manager, stands next to Mike Cook from the NHS community team

The NHS Community Team received a laptop for a mental health patient, helping them connect with others and reduce social isolation. This is a crucial step in their recovery journey.

3. Empowering families

Cheryl, Bristol Waste's IT Reuse Manager, stands next to Leanna Mockridge from South Bristol Children's Centre

South Bristol Children’s Centre now has a dedicated device for families to participate confidently in important meetings about their children’s welfare. Meetings including ADHD assessments and child protection conferences. This promotes dignity and independence for vulnerable Bristol families.

4. Improving quality of life

Cheryl, Bristol Waste's IT Reuse Manager, stands next to Pat, whose son Jonathan will be using the laptop

For individuals with disabilities like Pat’s son Jonathan, who has autism and significant learning disabilities, a laptop opens new worlds of entertainment and connection while spending time at home.

5. Housing stability

Cheryl, Bristol Waste's IT Reuse Manager, stands next to Meiron Avidan from Housing Justice

Our IT Reuse scheme sent multiple laptops to Housing Justice and St Mungo’s. These will help support formerly homeless individuals manage their tenancies, apply for services, create budgets, and search for employment opportunities – essential steps toward lasting stability.

6. Community support

Two IT reuse crews standing next to their big white collection van

Bristol Citizens Advice Bureau received devices that enable their advisers to provide free guidance to citizens throughout Bristol. Meanwhile, the Royal West of England Academy can now extend their creative programming to underserved communities in Hartcliffe, Southmead, and Redcliffe. These devices will go on to benefit disabled adults and children, neurodivergent families, and people living with dementia.