In a major push to bridge the digital divide, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has greenlit a £9.5 million fund specifically designed to provide free technology to those currently excluded from the online world. This new initiative, part of the broader Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, aims to ensure that no citizen is left behind as essential services—from GP appointments to banking—increasingly move to digital-first platforms.
Grassroots Support for Digital Accessibility
The £9.5 million investment is being channeled through local councils and grassroots charities across all nine regions of England. Unlike previous central government rollouts, this scheme empowers local authorities to identify the individuals in their communities who are most in need of hardware and internet access. By focusing on a “merit-based” funding model for local projects, the government hopes to reach 1.6 million people who currently lack the means to connect with modern technology.
Who Is Eligible for a Free Device?
Eligibility for the scheme is primarily centered on individuals of State Pension age—specifically those born before 1959—who have traditionally faced the highest barriers to digital literacy. While pensioners are the priority group, the DWP and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) have indicated that the fund also supports low-income households and those with disabilities. The goal is to provide a “lifeline” to those who find the cost of new laptops or smartphones prohibitive.
- Applicants must typically be of State Pension age to qualify for the primary tier.
- Low-income individuals on means-tested benefits may also be considered.
- Priority is given to those with no existing access to a computer or tablet.
- Local residency requirements apply as councils manage their own distributions.
How the Application Process Works
Rather than a single national portal, the application process is being handled at the local level to ensure devices reach the right hands. Eligible residents are encouraged to contact their local council or visit community hubs to inquire about the “Digital Inclusion Innovation” grants available in their area. Many participating charities are also setting up “tech banks” where refurbished devices, including repurposed laptops from government offices, are gifted directly to successful applicants.
The Impact of Staying Connected
Government ministers have emphasized that this is not just about giving away gadgets; it is about economic growth and social wellbeing. By providing the tools to get online, the DWP is helping older residents combat loneliness through video calls with family and enabling younger jobseekers to access a wider range of employment opportunities. The scheme also includes provisions for basic digital skills training, ensuring that once a person receives a device, they have the confidence to use it safely.
- Devices often come with pre-installed software for ease of use.
- Some local schemes include a period of free data or Wi-Fi support.
- Support sessions are available at local libraries to teach basic browsing.
- Repurposed devices are fully wiped and refurbished to professional standards.
The £9.5 million tech scheme represents a significant step toward a more inclusive UK society. By putting laptops and tablets into the hands of those who need them most, the DWP is opening doors to better healthcare, easier financial management, and stronger social ties. As the funding begins to reach local communities this month, eligible residents should act quickly to secure their place in this transformative digital program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a free laptop if I already own a smartphone?
The scheme is intended for the “digitally excluded,” so priority is given to those with no devices at all, though local councils may assess your specific needs if your current tech is obsolete.
Is there an online form I can fill out right now?
Most applicants will need to start by visiting their local council’s website or a community “Digital Hub,” as the funding is distributed through these regional partners rather than a single DWP link.
What kind of devices are being given away?
The fund covers a range of hardware, including tablets, smartphones, and laptops, depending on what the local project or charity has in stock.
Do I have to pay anything back later?
No, the devices are provided as a gift through the innovation fund and do not need to be returned or paid for at a later date.
Is this scheme available in Scotland and Wales?
The current £9.5 million allocation is focused on the nine regions of England, though similar digital inclusion programs are often run by the devolved governments in Scotland and Wales.
Last updated: 16 Mar 2026 (UK Time)
