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Community collection of unwanted tech

Monday, 26 January 2026 07:45

Examples of items that can be donated [Photo: Ruth McBain]

Climate Action Ilkley is once again inviting the local community to donate unwanted, but working, technology.

The group is asking for smartphones, laptops and tablets, with chargers and cables, to support digital inclusion for asylum seekers and refugees across Yorkshire and the Humber.

Collected devices will be delivered to Bradford‑based Solidaritech CIC (www.solidaritech.com) - a specialist organisation repurposing donated tech for people experiencing digital exclusion.

Solidaritech technologist and Chief Executive, Ben McKenna, said:

“We’re incredibly grateful for every piece of donated technology. Our team professionally wipes and refurbishes devices so they can be safely passed on to asylum seekers and refugees who desperately need digital access for education, communication, healthcare, and rebuilding their lives.”

Climate Action Ilkley Trustee & collection coordinator, Ruth McBain, says:

“We are delighted to collect tech for Solidaritech once again. Our first collaboration with them (and Digital Access West Yorkshire) was during Covid, when many people lacked the tech to access school online or to work from home. Now we’re supporting asylum seekers and refugees, many of whom arrive with no digital equipment at all.

“So donating your unused devices both supports a circular economy (by extending the life of valuable tech, reducing the need for precious resources and reducing electronic waste) and supports some of the region’s most vulnerable people. It’s great to collaborate with trusted organisations who specialise in this repurposing; Solidaritech have refurbished and donated over 1,180 items over the last year!”

Residents wishing to donate items can arrange a local drop‑off, or collection, if necessary, by emailing: techcollection@climateactionilkley.org.uk.

Devices do not need to be wiped beforehand, but doing so is appreciated. Instructions for securely wiping laptops can be found on Solidaritech’s website: https://solidaritech.com/donate/. Solidaritech will conduct secure data erasure for all items that still contain data.

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