A collaborative initiative across North Yorkshire is transforming lives by tackling digital exclusion and empowering residents with the tools, skills and confidence they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Project Reboot North Yorkshire (RebootNY) has been developed through strong partnership working across council teams, libraries, technology services and community organisations. The scheme focuses on identifying residents in need of digital support and ensuring they can access both equipment and training.
Ellen Jackson, who has been closely involved in the project, described it as a significant cross‑council effort:
“It’s a big project facilitated by colleagues across the council over and above day‑to‑day responsibilities. We knew that to continue to evolve the scheme, and to make it a success, we had to get everyone involved – colleagues and our communities – in helping to identify the people who might need our help and getting them the kit and support they needed.”
A Collaborative Approach to Innovation
At the heart of RebootNY’s success is collaboration. By bringing together teams from technology, localities and libraries, the project has developed a streamlined and sustainable process for redistributing digital equipment to those who need it most.
Donated laptops—either from within the council or from members of the public via local libraries—are collected and transported using existing library logistics. Devices are then taken to County Hall for checking, refurbishment and preparation before being distributed to a local library convenient for the recipient.
This innovative workflow not only ensures devices are safe and functional but also connects recipients directly with local support services.
“We’ve created a process where a laptop is donated… brought to County Hall to be checked before it is then delivered to the nearest library for the person who it is being made available for,” Ellen explained.
“It also means that person can access skills support if they need it at the library.”
Beyond Equipment: Building Skills and Confidence
While access to technology is a crucial first step, RebootNY goes further by addressing digital skills and confidence gaps. This holistic approach recognises that providing equipment alone is not enough—residents also need the knowledge and confidence to use it effectively.
Real-Life Impact: Charlie’s Story
The impact of RebootNY is best illustrated through the stories of individuals it supports.
Charlie, an older resident who had previously sustained a head injury, found himself homeless following the death of his mother. Without access to digital devices, skills or financial resources, he faced significant barriers in rebuilding his life.
Recognising this, a member of the council’s homelessness team, Julian Stasiuk, stepped in to help.
Through RebootNY, Charlie was provided with a laptop and supported to learn how to use it. This access proved transformative, enabling him to:
- Apply for Universal Credit
- Secure a source of income
- Engage with services online
- Move into new accommodation
Charlie’s journey highlights the life‑changing potential of digital inclusion when combined with personalised support.
Recognising the Team Behind the Work
Ellen emphasised the importance of the people driving the project forward, acknowledging colleagues from across multiple teams and services.
These include:
- Charlie Lyons from Technology
- Community Development Officers Ellen Jackson and Kate Senior
- Library teams across North Yorkshire
- Frontline workers such as Housing Support Officer Julian Stasiuk
Their combined efforts demonstrate the power of partnership in delivering meaningful change at scale.
Looking Ahead
As the project continues to grow, its ambitions remain focused on reducing digital inequality and supporting some of the county’s most vulnerable residents.
“I’m still excited about the impact the project makes, the collaboration, and the potential for the project to grow tackling digital exclusion and poverty across the county,” Ellen said.
RebootNY stands as a strong example of how local authorities can innovate and collaborate to address complex social challenges—ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.