Pass IT On (founded 2002) gives donated computers a new life by refurbishing and adapting them for use by people with a disability or long-term health condition in the EH postcode area. We also offer volunteering opportunities for people with additional needs, allowing trainees to learn skills and contribute to our work; collecting, building and adapting computers for clients. Imagining life witho
ut access to a computer seems unthinkable for many people today. From banking to shopping to social networking or reading favourite newspapers online, much of modern life involves access to computers and the internet. We keep in touch with our friends and families, share experiences and photographs and make social plans online. Yet there are still huge gaps in access to computers, especially for housebound disabled people and others who are not able to take advantage of publicly available IT facilities. Essential adaptations such as special keyboards and switches are rarely if ever available in public locations, and are very expensive. Meanwhile, each year tonnes of perfectly useable computer equipment end up being discarded when businesses and individuals upgrade their machines.
