- Currys extends its flagship digital inclusion programme to Portsmouth and Gosport, taking Tech4Families to eight communities across the UK.
- More than 3,000 families have now received laptops through the scheme, funded by customer microdonations via Pennies and delivered in partnership with the Digital Poverty Alliance.
Currys, in partnership with the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA), has announced the expansion of its Tech4Families programme into Portsmouth and Gosport.
The move brings the initiative into another communities affected by digital exclusion and marks the latest step in Currys' long-term commitment to helping close the UK's digital divide.
To mark the launch, a family in Portsmouth will become one of the first in the city to receive a free laptop, as Currys and the DPA officially introduce Tech4Families locally at the Portsmouth store. The devices help families access essential online services, support children with schoolwork and homework, and stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
Families are connected to the scheme through trusted local verifiers, including teachers and care workers, who help identify those in need and support them through the application process. Where a household does not have internet access, it will also receive a dongle and prepaid SIM providing connectivity for one year. Families will additionally be directed towards digital skills, media literacy and online safety resources to help them use the technology confidently.
At today's event, a local verifier will receive Portsmouth's first Tech4Families laptop on behalf of a family that has successfully applied to the programme.
According to the Digital Poverty Alliance, one in five children and one in seven adults are currently living in digital poverty, limiting their ability to learn, work and access essential online services.
The scheme is funded entirely through customer microdonations collected via Currys' partnership with charity Pennies. Customers can choose to add a 25p or 50p donation whenever they pay by card, both in-store and, since the launch of online donations earlier this year, on Currys.co.uk. Every donation goes directly towards purchasing laptops for families who would otherwise go without.
Since launching, Tech4Families has grown from an initial pilot into a nationwide programme operating across eight areas: North Norfolk, West Cumbria, Staffordshire, Ayrshire, Port Talbot and Bridgend, Lincolnshire, Northern Ireland, and now Portsmouth and Gosport. To date, more than 3,000 families have received laptops through the scheme, alongside access to digital skills support to help them make the most of their technology.
As a founding partner of the Digital Poverty Alliance, Currys continues to work closely with the charity to expand the reach and impact of Tech4Families. This includes supporting independent research into the programme's impact on children's education, digital skills and long-term outcomes.
“We know how life-changing a laptop can be for a family that doesn't have one, and Portsmouth and Gosport are exactly the kind of communities this scheme exists to support. Tackling digital poverty is a huge challenge, but thanks to the generosity of our customers we've already helped provide laptops to more than 3,000 families across the UK.”
Moira Thomas Group Sustainability & ESG Director
Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance:
“Being expected to complete homework on a phone, wait for access to a shared device or go without an internet connection is not a minor inconvenience. It places children at a direct educational disadvantage. Importantly, this is not simply about handing over a laptop. By connecting families with existing support in Portsmouth, we can help ensure that they also have the skills and confidence to make meaningful and safe use of the online world.”
Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North, said:
“Access to technology is no longer a luxury, as a former teacher I know it is essential for children to learn, develop and fully participate in modern life. I’m delighted to see Tech4Families launching in Portsmouth, helping families who might otherwise be left behind to access the devices they need.
“Partnerships like this, bringing together businesses, charities and our local community, can make a real difference in tackling digital poverty and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.”
Tech4Families sits at the heart of Currys' wider purpose to help everyone enjoy amazing technology, and its commitment to tackling digital exclusion across the UK.
The scheme launched today with an official event in the local Currys Portsmouth store.
ENDS
About the Digital Poverty Alliance
The Digital Poverty Alliance is a coalition working to end digital poverty in the UK by 2030, partnering with businesses, government and communities to deliver practical, scalable support for people who are digitally excluded.
About Pennies
Pennies is a fintech charity that enables small point-of-sale donations. Currys customers can donate at checkout in-store or online, with contributions going directly to Tech4Families.