Computer Aid

What is Computer Aid?

ComputerAid International recycles unwanted computers in Britain for use in trade unions, schools and community organisations in developing countries.

This helps to strengthen organisations which can have the most impact in improving the living conditions of some of the world's disadvantaged communities. UNISON is a UK partner of the charity which collects and repairs computer equipment before shipping it to countries around the world.

To date, ComputerAid has shipped over 10,000 computers to schools and community organisations in over 60 developing countries. The organisation refurbishes over 500 PCs every month, each PC providing much needed vocational training in onformation technology to disadvantaged children in developing countries.

The Issues

Every year over one million computers are dumped in landfill sites in the British countryside, whilst in developing countries tens of millions of people have no access to IT education or vocational training.

Working computers which are routinely dumped in favour of the latest technology could be put to good use by trade unions, schools and community centres in developing countries. ComputerAid has already sent 150 computers to organisations in four countries, to projects such as a community health clinic and a rural schools mobile laboratory in South Africa, a women's training centre and community movement in Nicaragua and a trade union in Zimbabwe.

What can I do?

UNISON branches and individual members can recycle their computers through ComputerAid. Pentiums and IBM compatible computers, which can run Microsoft Windows programs, are especially useful, but any working computer equipment can be recycled.

Why is it important to UNISON members?

UNISON members and branches should try to run their offices responsibly - which includes trying to avoid needless waste. Recycling a computer means that you extend its useful life and provide community groups in the developing world with a vital resource.

It costs nothing to donate an old computer to Computer Aid, but it could make all the difference to those who receive it on the other side of the world. Just think how you'd run your office without a computer.

Partners of computer Aid include VSO, Kingfisher Trust, Coda International, United Nations Association for International Service, Skillshare Africa, Survival International, Community HEART, Peace Child International, International Co-operation for Development, Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign, SOS Children's Villages (UK) and UNISON.