As a result of the pandemic our young people are trying to learn from home, which is hard enough without a teacher and friends alongside you, but even harder if you are denied access to learning opportunities because you don’t have the wi-fi or the necessary devices to do so.

It is estimated that Norfolk’s 430 schools and academies still need around 6,000 devices and at least 1,000 households with school-age children are unable to connect to the internet.

With schools and academies closed to most youngsters until at least late February, the high level of need has arisen because most children are now expected to complete a full curricular day of learning. This means multiple devices may be needed to enable every child in a family to participate in online classes, with adults also working from home.

The Every Child Online campaign gives two ways to step up and help:

• Individuals and businesses can make donations to the Foundation to be spent on new laptops, tablets and internet connections.
• Businesses and organisations can give pre-used corporate devices to the County Council for refurbishment and distribution to schools. To donate such devices please email devices@norfolk.gov.uk.

Every day of learning lost is another hurdle to climb. We need to change that and help them now. Your support today will change their lives tomorrow.

Donate now

Donate online quickly and securely, or alternatively please make a cheque payable to Norfolk Community Foundation (referencing the Every Child Online campaign) and send it to Norfolk Community Foundation, St. James Mill, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN, or telephone us on 01603 623958.