The government is providing laptops, tablets and internet access to help children and families access remote education during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Laptops and tablets information
Children who were asked to take extra precautions at any point during the coronavirus pandemic, known as shielding, may be eligible for a FREE laptop or tablet from the government.
Internet access information
Children up to 16 years old or care leavers up to 25 years old may be eligible to receive FREE internet access from the government. This is open to students who don't have access to broadband at home.
You may be offered a voucher to access a BT WiFi hotspot for FREE. If you don't have access to a BT hotspot, you may receive an increase to your existing mobile data allowance instead.
How to apply for laptops, tablets or internet access
Please contact your school directly to find out how to apply and what the next steps are.
What to do if you're not eligible
Young people aged 16-19 may be eligible for support through the government's 16 to 19 Bursary Fund.
Previous support for vulnerable children
The Department of Education also gave out 200,000 laptops and 4G wireless routes from May-July 2020. These were given to students in year 10 who received free school meals, care leavers and young people who receive support from a social worker.