Wiltshire Digital Drive has strengthened its support for local people in need of digital access, thanks to funding from Selwood Housing’s stronger communities fund.
The funding enabled the organisation to purchase a PAT testing kit and train two volunteers to carry out electrical safety checks on all donated devices. The project, completed on 30 January 2026, ensures that every laptop and charger redistributed to the community is safe, reliable, and ready to use. This extra safety step reinforces Wiltshire Digital Drive’s commitment to providing secure, high‑quality refurbished devices across the county.
Since December 2025, the charity has distributed 35 devices to young people currently out of education and adults seeking employment. These devices help break down digital barriers that prevent people from accessing vital services, education, and work opportunities.
One family shared the impact of the support. After receiving a laptop, a mother caring for her son who was recently diagnosed with ADHD and awaiting an EHCP was finally able to complete important paperwork, organise documentation, and join online meetings with the school and local authority. She described the difference as “life changing.”
Natalie Luckham, Director at Wiltshire Digital Drive, highlighted the value of the funding, saying the best part was “being able to add an additional layer of safety checks” to their process. She also shared that “Selwood Housing’s process for funding and the online application form was extremely easy to navigate.”
Community feedback has also been enthusiastic about the support from Wiltshire Digital Drive. One recipient shared:
“I still can’t believe I’ve got a laptop now—so grateful. I’m filling out a form on it now and it’s so much easier than my phone.”
Angie Blackford, customer involvement and communities facilitator at Selwood Housing, said: “Our stronger communities fund supports local projects that aim to improve opportunities for our customers and strengthen the communities where they live. This project shows how targeted funding can deliver practical benefits for local people.”
