CareDocs, the UK’s leading person centred software provider for the care industry, has teamed up with Bristol Waste in an effort to help abolish digital poverty and reduce technology waste.

A recent study revealed that the UK generated the second largest amount of e-waste in 2022 and estimates that by 2024, as a country, we will overtake Norway to secure the number one spot. 

IT and telecoms waste has since doubled from 2008 (19,053 tonnes) to 2022 (37,631 tonnes estimated) with the UK on track to produce just under 55,000 tonnes of e-waste by 2030. And with the UK government’s efforts to tackle our impact on the climate, many businesses are now working towards becoming completely carbon neutral.  

But with a vast amount of toxic materials being released into the atmosphere via e-waste, and precious metals such as gold, silver copper, platinum and aluminium being thrown away, businesses around the UK are urged to do more to reduce, reuse and recycle their IT and e-waste before 2030. 

CareDocs has accepted this challenge with enthusiasm and has teamed up with Bristol Waste and is working closely on their Digital Inclusion Scheme, backed by the Bristol City Council as part of the One City approach. This scheme provides free computers, laptops and mobile phones to schools, charities and marginalised communities in an effort to tackle digital poverty in the Bristol area. 

Managing Director of CareDocs, Alan Pocock comments, “As a business, we acknowledge that we can and must do our part to help tackle not only the impacts of digital poverty in marginalised communities but also our own impact on the environment.  

“In our duty to ensure that we are taking action, working with Bristol Waste is the perfect way to ensure our IT equipment is recycled in an environmentally conscious manner, whilst also supporting those who may have difficulties in accessing education and employment opportunities due to lack of access.” 

CareDocs has already made significant donations to the Digital Inclusion Scheme, with older equipment being given to people who face barriers to education, training and employment, accessing services and staying connected with family and friends, across schools, charities and refugees. These donations have significantly impacted the amount of IT and e-waste produced at CareDocs, helping further demonstrate their commitment to addressing climate change and supporting local marginalised communities. 

Andrew Samuel, IT Manager also adds, “Through my extensive experience collaborating with various charities and community groups, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for the immense value of programs like this one. Recognising the need for meaningful action, I felt it was important to take the initiative and set up this collaboration.  

“We regularly accumulate a significant amount of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) waste, and I am genuinely thrilled to repurpose our retired equipment, giving it a new lease of life. This not only prevents it from ending up in landfills but also presents a wonderful opportunity to support schools, charities, and marginalised communities in Bristol. It’s a meaningful way for us to contribute positively to both the environment and our local community.” 

CareDocs has committed to continue in its efforts to give back across a number of different areas, including the environment, mental health and wellbeing to name a few, through its newly released core social values.