Heart Hertfordshire launches the Tech Appeal with Croft Communication

Radio station, Heart Hertfordshire, and cutting-edge business communications service provider, Croft Communications, have launched their Tech Appeal.

The initiative aims to combat digital poverty and enable better access to an online education for children across Hertfordshire through the donation of surplus tech equipment. According to research by the University of Cambridge, only 51% of households earning between £6,000 and £10,000 have household internet access, compared to 99% of households with an income over £40,001. With current school closures, children up and down the country have struggled to gain access to sufficient virtual education.

The Tech Appeal has been launched in response to this, with Heart and Croft Communications encouraging local businesses across the county to donate working laptops, desktops and tablets that are surplus to requirements to the cause. These will then be passed on to families who need extra support for home learning.

Croft Communications has also offered to supply free mobile broadband to up to 100 families for the remainder of the school year, to ensure an access to education.

Mark Bramley, CEO of Croft Communications, said; “Croft Communications is proud to have its roots in Hertfordshire. We’ve been head- quartered in Hertford since our inception 15 years ago, so we jumped at the chance to give something back to the community. It’s been an extremely challenging start to the year, especially for families with school-aged children having to homeschool. We’re proud to be working alongside Heart on this great initiative to ensure children across the county can continue with their education.”

The Tech Appeal launched on air and online early February, and businesses can go online to Heart.co.uk/Hertfordshire to donate.

Station Director of Heart, Debbie Chadwick, said: “Heart Hertfordshire has always supported its local community. These last 12 months have been difficult for everyone and for those already struggling, the latest restrictions have compounded that struggle. Education is a key part of a child’s development, so to help build towards their future is a true privilege. I am thankful to Croft Communications for their compassion and generosity in supporting the Tech Appeal.”

The Tech Appeal runs for four weeks.

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