We have donated over 200 devices across the country, some of them going to communities surrounding East Wick and Sweetwater, our joint venture development in partnership with Balfour Beatty Investments, on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in East London. The donations were part of our social value commitments in the area.
The pandemic has impacted many people but left young and older people especially vulnerable and disconnected in a world of digitalisation. The absence of digital devices prevents people from remaining in touch with friends and families and creates a barrier when looking for employment or accessing educational resources.
Keeping in touch
Devices including iPads and laptops were donated to local charities that East Wick and Sweetwater works closely with to drive and support economic regeneration in East London. The charities include: Safe Passage, ECHO, Ruff Sqwad Arts Foundation, our tenant at Hackney Bridge as well as the Department for Work and Pensions and a local secondary school. These charities and organisations have passed the devices to people that have been struggling to complete job applications and stay in in touch with friends and family members.
Careers Lead Ms Alexander, Stoke Newington School, said: “This has made an enormous difference. One of our Year 11 students can now use the laptop to access online information about his applications to sixth form college.” A message closely mirrored by ECHO who said: “These are already having a positive impact on closing the digital divide at a grassroots level in East London which has only increased this year due to Covid-19. Thank you.”
About East Wick and Sweetwater
East Wick and Sweetwater is located on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and will bring circa 1,800 new homes as well as new schools, nurseries, commercial and retail spaces, and community spaces.
This new neighbourhood will fully come to life by summer 2021 with the completion of the first phase, delivering over 300 homes. As part of its social value commitments and vision, East Wick and Sweetwater is fully committed to help develop and sustain the local community it serves.