Families to lap-up free computers

LOW-income families with more than one child will be able to claim two free laptop computers from Monday as part of a pioneering new Government scheme on trial in Oldham.

The Homes Access Scheme, which aims to bridge the digital divide, will be open to pupils who qualify for free school meals.

Households will be able to buy a computer and broadband package from a high street retailer — then claim the money back in council grants.

Families with more than one child will qualify for a maximum of two packages.

It is estimated that 8,500 seven to 18-year-olds in Oldham — one of only two councils involved in the trial along with Suffolk in East Anglia — meet the criteria.

Councillor Kay Knox, Cabinet member for children, young people and families, said: “As one of only two councils to be involved in the pilot, we are committed to ending the digital divide.

“We want to make computers more affordable for those families on low incomes.

“For households with more than one child, a maximum of two packages per household will be available depending on certain criteria.”

The initiative is part of a £300 million Government programme to ensure every child has internet access by 2011.

It will be introduced nationally next autumn.

For more information, contact Oldham Council on 016-700 7770 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/ homeaccess