In July, NYAS Cymru was awarded a grant from the WCVA to help provide digital tools such as laptops and tablets to young people in care, to help them maximise their potential and maintain social contact with friends and family.

The funding was welcomed after charities and campaigners across the children and young people’s sector noted that care experienced children and young people were facing ‘digital poverty’ throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation, unable to maintain contact with friends and family and without the resources to continue their education virtually.

The support is available to care experienced young people aged between 16-25 involved in projects with NYAS Cymru and without access to a digital device.

Those eligible can apply for a laptop or tablet to assist with reducing isolation, participating in youth work activities, study and finding learning or employment opportunities online. By providing this free digital support, NYAS Cymru hopes to ensure care experienced young people feel more connected to friends, family and their community, feel supported and valued and can access services that can provide help, including the NYAS website and resources.

If the young person is able to, NYAS Cymru are encouraging the young person to attempt to complete the application form themselves. Otherwise, it can be filled out on their behalf by their Social Worker, Personal Advisor or other professional. The form can be accessed here and needs to be completed by the deadline on Tuesday 10th November. Please do share this vital information for care experienced young people in Wales.