Sir,
It goes without saying that IT is everywhere – from the boardroom to the classroom, in our homes and in our pockets. Yet, as the IT industry prepares for its annual Byte Night fundraising event, I’m increasingly concerned that many within our society, the vulnerable and underprivileged, have no access to the everyday technologies we take for granted.
For young people especially, a lack of access to technology has a significant impact – at a social, cultural, professional and financial level. For those that are in more difficult circumstances, such as living below the poverty line, having no fixed address or coming out of care, the effect of this can be even worse.
Young people in these situations can often feel socially excluded, so it is important that they have the tools they need to break the cycle.
Taking part in Byte Night, the IT industry’s annual ‘sleep out’ event in aid of Action for Children, makes me acutely aware of the responsibility we, the IT sector, have responsibility towards the digitally disadvantaged. Money raised from Byte Night funds projects that provide support, training and education for young people at risk of homelessness and deprivation.
As part of an industry that strives to change the world for the better, we are perfectly placed to make a difference to the lives of these vulnerable children across the UK.
To sleep out or chip in, visit: www.bytenight.org.uk.
Ken Deeks, co-founder of Byte Night and Director at The Amber Group
