A scheme in Thurrock is helping tackle digital poverty by providing refurbished computers to children.
The initiative, run by the charity Every Child Online and supported by Thurrock Council, saw 45 youngsters receive desktop kits at an event at Grays Library.
The computers were handed to pupils from Thameside Primary and Grays Convent after being donated, fully wiped and rebuilt to ensure they are safe, secure and ready for use.
Vikki Hartstean, councillor responsible for children's services, education and community safety, said digital exclusion continues to hold young people back both in education and later in life.
She said: "Digital exclusion puts young people at a disadvantage in terms of learning and future life chances, and too many computers and laptops are ending up in landfill.
"What I love about this scheme is it is both helping the planet and supporting the education of our children."
The families of the children each pay £20 for the desktop kits which covers the cost of wiping it clean and refurbishing it, so it is as good as new.
Residents were also able to donate unwanted computers and digital devices at Grays Library on Saturday.
Those still wishing to donate can also check the library's website for more information.
Mike Tarbard, from Every Child Online, highlighted the risks of throwing away devices containing sensitive information.
Mr Tarbard added: "Throwing out your old digital devices could expose your personal data to criminal gangs.
"With every machine donated to us, we securely erase the device using certified data-destruction processes, ensuring all personal information is permanently removed, then we re-build them and provide them to local youngsters without a computer."
If you need support with getting online via your mobile phone, you can also visit your library for support.
Thurrock Libraries is a community partner of the Good Things Foundation: National Databank scheme, which provides free mobile phone data, texts and calls for people in need.
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