Monklands tenants living in Clyde Valley Housing Association (CVHA) properties are eligible to receive free iPads and a year of mobile wifi access in a new initiative to help more people to get online.
The organisation has 120 tablets to distribute to its customers under the Connecting Scotland programme being run by the Scottish Government – with the “priority” recipients being its residents with children who need technology to learn from home, as well as vulnerable, elderly, care-experienced and isolated tenants.
Residents can apply to the scheme if they are digitally excluded, do not have access to or cannot afford a device to access the internet, aren’t currently connected to the internet or have a low income meaning they are unable to pay for online connectivity, have children in the household or are care leavers aged up to 26.
Clyde Valley chief executive Lynn Wassell said: “This project will help our most vulnerable and isolated customers keep connected and gain access to essential online services that will improve their overall wellbeing.
“Helping digitally-excluded customers get connected and be online is very important to us, and we’re delighted to be part of Connecting Scotland’s campaign.”
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Residents are asked to get in touch find out if they are eligible for the iPad and wifi access offer by emailing cvha@cvha.org.uk or calling 01698 268855 – and chosen recipients will have the support of a “digital champion” to help set up and begin using their new device.
Communities secretary Aileen Campbell added: “The distribution of these iPads with mobile wifi access through Connecting Scotland will make a real difference to households across Lanarkshire.
“Internet access brings huge benefits, especially during these challenging times, and we’d encourage anyone who is eligible to apply for a device, connectivity and support so that they can get online and stay safe.”
The association has more than 4000 properties across Lanarkshire, and has helped residents during the coronavirus pandemic with assistance including making phonecalls to older people, providing support and ensuring emergency repairs were carried out.
CVHA’s properties in Monklands include the converted former Coatbridge library and the ongoing conversion of the former Broomknoll Church in Airdrie town centre, as well as new builds at Craigend Drive and Wilton Street in Coatbridge.
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