Tech4Young Carers now covers Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Southend-on-Sea, and Milton Keynes. In Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, delivery continues in partnership with Centre 33.  The programme is run by the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA), with support from E2BN.

This programme is designed to provide laptops, internet connectivity, and digital skills training to young carers aged 11–25 across Cambridge, Fenland, South Cambridgeshire, East Cambridgeshire, Huntingdonshire, Peterborough, Southend-on-Sea, and Milton Keynes. Through these partnerships, we aim to empower young carers to thrive both in their educational journey and personal development. 

Empowering Young Carers with Technology and Skills

Caring for a loved one while balancing personal responsibilities can be incredibly challenging, especially for young carers who often face barriers to education and social engagement due to a lack of digital access. Our programme directly addresses this by offering:

• Refurbished Laptops: High-quality devices that meet our minimum specification for educational purposes.
• Connectivity Support: A MiFi dongle and SIM cards pre-loaded with six months of data, plus guidance on accessing social tariffs for long-term broadband options.
• Digital Skills Training: Tailored digital skills training led by experienced partners who understand the unique challenges faced by young carers.
• Online Safety Resources: Bespoke guidance on staying safe online, developed in partnership with Internet Matters, ensuring young carers can navigate the digital world securely.

Tailored Support for Young Carers

This programme goes beyond just providing technology – it offers holistic support designed to meet the specific needs of young carers. Participants will have access to the National Digital Skills Helpline, and a resource pack that signposts essential services, learning portals, and information on digital safety.

Through this programme, we aim to equip young carers not only with tools for learning but also with access to training, employment, and social opportunities that are essential for their personal well-being and future success. 

Expected Impact

The Tech4YoungCarers Programme seeks to understand the tangible benefits of digital inclusion for young carers. Our anticipated outcomes include:

• Greater confidence in using digital tools
• Enhanced understanding of online safety and media literacy
• Improved access to education and employment opportunities
• Stronger connections with peers and other young carers

How it Works

Please note that resources are limited. Meeting the eligibility criteria and obtaining verification does not guarantee a laptop; distribution for successful applicants began in November 2024. You may also qualify for mobile internet support, which we will arrange as soon as possible. As part of your application, you will be asked about the mobile signal strength in your home.

For those verifying an application, please review the Tech4YoungCarers Terms and Conditions.

Eligibility

The programme is available to young carers aged 11–25 residing in Cambridge, Fenland, South Cambridgeshire, East Cambridgeshire, Huntingdonshire, and Peterborough, and – through our expansion – in Southend-on-Sea and Milton Keynes. Eligible participants must have substantial unpaid caring responsibilities for a family member or close friend affected by a long-term illness, terminal condition, disability, mental health issue, age-related frailty, or substance misuse. Please note, childcare and professional care work are not considered as qualifying responsibilities. 

How to Apply 

If you or someone you know is a young carer and could benefit from this programme, we encourage you to apply today. Young carers aged 16 or over may apply themselves, or a parent or guardian living in the same household may apply. In this case, you must provide details of a verifier—someone who has a professional relationship with the young carer. For T4YC, a professional may apply on behalf of the young carer; however, the family must still complete certain details on a separate form, which will be emailed to them.

To apply, click the button below. Alternatively, text 07984 445476 with the keyword T4YC, your name, street address, and postcode to request a paper application form by post. You can also download a paper application below. 

Our Partner

Digital Poverty Alliance acknowledges the essential support of E2BN in making the Tech4YoungCarers programme a reality. Their partnership has been crucial in equipping young carers with the digital tools and skills needed to succeed in today’s increasingly digital world.

Help Us Support More Families 

In a society that values justice and compassion, it is unacceptable that children are growing up without proper access to the digital world and the life-changing benefits it brings. We can only continue this vital work with your support. By making a small donation, you can help us reach more families and provide the resources they need to succeed.