Possilpark tenants get laptops to help with schoolwork and staying connected

Hawthorn Housing Co-operative supplied the devices – to over 20% of its tenants – to support children with their studies and help people look for work.

The co-op worked with partners to source funding and equipment, with 20 reconditioned computers obtained from the Remade Network.

Glasgow Life and the Scottish Government provided funding for 57 Chromebooks.

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Co-op bosses believe ensuring people are digitally connected is important during the Covid-19 pandemic to help people study, apply for work, keep in touch with others or get the best deals.

Director Colin Turnbull said: “The Covid restrictions have made it all the more important to ensure that everyone in our community has access to the internet to participate fully as active citizens and, in particular, to ensure that our young people are able to learn at home effectively.”

He also thinks the move will have benefits for the housing co-op.

“Every family that received a PC or Chromebook gave us an email address,” he said.

“This gives us a panel of tenants we can consult with on various issues as this has been difficult using traditional means.

“We will also invite them to participate remotely at future AGMS and will encourage them to participate in any community campaigns."

“Getting them digitally connected allows our community to get their voices heard effectively.”

The co-operative has arranged for training and data packages to be provided to families.

Emma Lynass, customer and financial services assistant, said: “The co-operative wants to raise the opportunities and aspirations of young people living in our community.

“We knew we had children who could not home learn effectively because they didn’t have the equipment.

“We have worked closely with the local primary schools to ensure that as many of our children as possible have the chance to learn from home effectively.”