University donates laptops to city's new youth zone

Ten refurbished laptops have been donated to a city's new multimillion-pound facility for children and young adults.

The 15-inch laptops were handed over to Vault Youth Zone in Preston by University of Lancashire representatives and RecycleIT, which processes their redundant IT equipment.

The kit will allow children and young adults, aged eight to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, to access digital resources and support while using the soon to open facility on Tithebarn Street.

Natalie Dugdale from Vault, said they would "play an important role in strengthening our employability offer and supporting young people as they prepare for their futures".

The donation follows on from a gift of 12 repurposed laptops to Preston's Foxton Centre, which supports vulnerable communities, last year.

Young people will be able to access more than 20 activities, including sport, climbing, boxing, creative arts, music, drama and employability training at the youth zone, as well as support from trained youth workers, sessional staff and volunteers.

Two of the university's degree apprentices are working there as apprentice youth workers while studying part-time.

Gemma Unsworth is combining her work at the centre with a three-year degree apprenticeship in youth work and community practice.

The 21-year-old, from Wigan, said it meant she could "see first-hand how important access to technology is for young people".

"When building confidence with digital skills, having the right equipment can make a huge difference," she said.

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