Get online at home for free

CBHA advisers can help residents apply for a free computer and/ or internet to get online at home through the government’s Home Access scheme.

The programme is aimed at people on low incomes. Residents who are receiving certain benefits could qualify for a grant to buy a computer and/or a minimum of one year’s internet access.

Head of community development Roz Gordon said: “Children who go online for learning at home get on better in school. And with a computer and the internet at home, everyone in the family has the chance to learn more. It’s easier and more fun with a computer and the internet.”

Studies show children online at home:
• do better in maths and reading tests
• are more interested in their studies
• have more fun learning.

They can go over school work from home, do homework online, contact classmates and teachers, get information and work together on projects. And show their parents, too.
Depending on what you need, the grant allows eligible applicants to buy one of the following packages:

1. Full package (a computer, one year's internet access, service and support)
2. A computer with service and support only
3. One year's internet access only
You may be able to qualify for a Home Access Grant if you answer YES to:
• three questions in section one, and
• at least one question in section two.
 
Section One:
Are you a parent or guardian responsible for and living with a child...
…who is in school years 3 to 9 inclusive?
…who attends a state-maintained school in England full time?
…who has not already had a computer from a Home Access Grant or similar programme, such as Computers for Pupils?
 
Section Two:
Do you receive at least one of the following?
• Free school meals for your child
• Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income support
• Child Tax Credit but not Working Tax Credit and an income of less than £16,040
• Guaranteed Pension Credit (not Savings Credit)
• Income-based Employment Support Allowance
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

If you think you qualify for a Home Access Grant, please call CBHA on 020 7922 8500 to speak to an adviser who will help you with the application, or contact the Home Access Grant Helpline direct on 0333 200 1004 to get an application form.

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