What type of devices do you accept?
We accept a wide variety of devices - laptops (Windows and Mac) Desktops (Windows and Mac) Tablets (Android and iOS) and Smartphones (Android and iOS).
We also accept old-style mobile phones and game consoles (Xbox, PlayStation, etc.)
Do the devices need to be in working condition?
We would prefer devices to be in working condition, but we will try to repair those that aren’t. If they cannot be repaired, we will recycle them.
Does it matter if the device is really old?
There is no age limit, we aim to try and refurbish or recycle as many devices as possible.
I have a large number of devices to donate, can you collect them?
Please email digital.gifting@oldham.gov.uk and we will get in touch with you to arrange this.
What should I do before donating a device?
If you are donating a laptop or desktop you should back up any data you may still need.
If you are donating an Apple smartphone or iPad, make sure you sign out of your iCloud account and conduct a factory reset.
If it is an Android device, please make sure you sign out of your Google account and conduct a factory reset.
I’m not sure how to do a factory reset, can you help?
Yes, pop into one of our digital drop ins and we will help you to factory reset your device before you donate it.
Digital drop-in at Oldham Library
Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9am – 12pm.
Contact:
- Phone: 0161 770 8000
- Email: libraries@oldham.gov.uk
What happens to my device when I donate it?
Your device will be securely stored at the library until it is sent to our community partner Tameside Community Computers for refurbishment.
Once it arrives at their secure premises, the data will be fully erased by our certified data erasure software. It will then be inspected to see if it can be refurbished.
If it is suitable for refurbishment, it will go through a process to see if any parts need replacing.
Once refurbished it will be given free of charge back out to someone in the Oldham community that is living in digital poverty. If it cannot be refurbished it will be recycled in an environmentally friendly way.?
How do I know my data will be wiped from the device?
We recommend you do a factory reset before you donate your device - this will delete any data from the device. We then use Certus erasure software to fully wipe any remaining data, and we provide a tamper-proof data erasure certificate for each device.
I need a device – how do I get one?
If you need a device or know someone who does, please email:
Recipients should be over 18, an Oldham resident, and not able to afford a suitable device for their needs.