E-Quality: Pre-loved devices get new life in Renfrewshire project

DCP member and Project Co-ordinator Esther Misajel shares Pachedu's journey towards digital inclusion

As the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE) celebrates 20 years of championing inclusion and supporting communities across Scotland, Pachedu is proud to reflect on the important role the organisation has played in our journey towards digital inclusion. 

Through our involvement with the ALLIANCE and the Digital Citizen Panel (DCP) we have built valuable relationships and strengthened partnerships that help us better support local communities. These connections have enabled us to share learning, collaborate with like-minded organisations, and contribute to conversations around equality, wellbeing, healthcare, and digital inclusion. 

One of the most significant outcomes of this collaborative journey has been the development of the our Pachedu E-quality Access project funded by Renfrewshire Council and delivered in partnership with OneRen Libraries. The project was established to address the growing digital divide by collecting, refurbishing, and redistributing donated digital devices to individuals and families who need them most. 

Partnership working has been at the heart of the project’s success. By working closely with local Renfrewshire organisations, libraries, charities, educational institutions, community groups, and networks such as DigiRen, we have been able to identify people experiencing digital exclusion and provide support tailored to their needs. These partnerships have strengthened referral pathways, increased awareness of available support, and encouraged a more coordinated approach to tackling digital inequality across the region. 

The project has also benefited from wider community-led initiatives that promote digital participation, including DigiKnowVember

. Led through collaborative partnership working across Renfrewshire, DigiKnowVember has provided an invaluable platform for digital inclusion, connect organisations, and raise awareness of the challenges faced by digitally excluded individuals. 

The project demonstrates that digital inclusion is about far more than access to technology. It is about creating opportunities, building confidence, and empowering people to access education, employment, healthcare, and essential services. 

We’ve distributed 17 devices to individuals who would otherwise face significant barriers to accessing digital technology including students, older adults, refugees, asylum seekers, and people experiencing financial hardship. The impact of this support can be life-changing. For example, Mary, a younger asylum seeker studying at the University of Glasgow, received a laptop that enabled her to access online learning resources and continue her studies. Similarly, Elaine from the Senior Ferguslie group received a tablet that helped her stay connected with friends and family while building her digital skills, confidence, and independence. Access to digital technology can open doors to education, social connection, and greater participation in everyday life. 

The project has also highlighted the strong connection between digital inclusion and environmental sustainability. Through the collection and refurbishment of more than 100 donated devices, we have reduced electronic waste while giving valuable technology a second life within the community. This approach supports both social inclusion and the circular economy, demonstrating how environmental and social goals can work hand in hand. 

We also continue to provide digital skills support through workshops, one-to-one assistance, and community engagement activities. These efforts help people develop the confidence and practical skills needed to use technology safely, independently, and effectively in their everyday lives. 

As we celebrate the ALLIANCE’s 20-year milestone, we are grateful for the partnerships, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration that have helped shape our journey. The support of the ALLIANCE, OneRen Libraries, Renfrewshire Council, DigiRen, DigiKNovember and the wider community demonstrate the power of collective action in addressing digital inequality. Together, these partnerships have enabled us to reach more people, create lasting impact, and build stronger pathways to digital participation for those most at risk of exclusion. 

Pachedu remains committed to expanding the E-Quality Access Project and working towards a future where everyone, regardless of their background, age, income, or circumstances, can access and benefit from digital technology through pre-loved device donation. 

Together, through strong partnerships, shared learning, and community-driven action, we can build a more connected, inclusive, and digitally enabled Scotland, ensuring that no one is left behind in an increasingly digital world. 

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