October 23 2013.


Local MP Norman Baker is supporting Microsoft’s efforts to support local charities by giving out free software and establishing ‘Youth Hubs’ to help young people access technology and develop digital skills.

Through these programmes Microsoft is seeking to help out charitable organisations. This involves taking steps to help charities harness technology to serve their communities. Since 2006 Microsoft has donated software worth £98.5 million to 11,615 UK charities, in partnership with Technology Trust. Registered charities can claim up to a maximum of 50 licences from a wide range of software including Windows 8 and Office 2013 as well as more specialist software. Norman is encouraging local charities to take up this offer by going to www.ctxchange.org.

Microsoft is also working with the charity UK Youth to help young people access technology and develop digital skills by setting up ‘Youth Hubs’. Each Microsoft Youth Hub has funding for hardware, free software and training for leaders to pass on to young people.

As part of this programme UK Youth and Microsoft are now offering 35 additional youth projects across the country the chance to become part of the Youth Hubs network. The extended deadline for applications is 31st October 2013. Further information on the Microsoft Youth Hub project can be found at www.ukyouth.org  

Norman says: “These two programmes being run by Microsoft provide great opportunities for local community organisations. Charities can get a leg up by saving money on expensive IT costs and local young people will certainly benefit in the long term by honing their tech skills. I hope to see local organisations make the most of this offer.”