Families in Runcorn and Widnes could benefit from Home Access Scheme

The government has recently decided to revive the Home Access Scheme, and as a result of this thousands of families in the area of Runcorn and Widnes could find themselves eligible for a free laptop and free broadband.

It was announced recently that the government in the UK had decided to revive its earlier proposed Home Access Scheme, which would make it possible for eligible families to receive free laptops and free broadband access. The purpose of the scheme was to ensure that lower income families could also enjoy the educational benefits that come with having home access to computers and broadband.

In order to be eligible for the scheme households must have a child that is in years 3-9 and is eligible for free school meals. Those aged up to the age of eighteen who are in care would also be eligible for the scheme. According to reports around three thousand people in the Runcorn and Widnes area could be eligible for the scheme based on these criteria.

The Prime Minister Gordon Brown has continued to highlight the benefits of the scheme, stating: “I believe everyone should benefit from new advances in technology. It’s right we break down any barriers to social mobility in order to give more children and families the opportunity to complete coursework, conduct research and apply for jobs online.”

He added: “This initiative means families can come together, learn together and reap the rewards together. Helping children succeed in school and get the skills they need will set them on the right track to get good quality jobs in the future.”

Source – Runcorn And Widnes Weekly News