Birmingham City Council continues to recycle computers

• May. 5 by Katie Wood (2)

Birmingham City Council has continued to pledge their support to the Community MAR computer scheme.

The scheme which was launched in November through Community Computers, based in Shard End, has proven to be a success, allowing residents receiving benefits to buy recycled computers for as little as £40.

The main objective that the Community MAR scheme is to increase the number of low-cost computers available to eligible residents.

Every year millions of fully-functioned computers are thrown away throughout the world. This scheme benefits the environment by helping to prevent the premature disposal of computers than can be reused.

The shop is supported through a joint partnership between Service Birmingham and IT Disposal Ltd. Between the two companies they organise the recycling of the computers, wiping of the data and the general running of the store.

The scheme also welcomes unwanted computers and accessories from the general public. Owners can take their unwanted items into the store and come away assured that there data will be destroyed and they will be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

At the stores opening Chris Leggett, Service Birmingham’s Corporate Development Director said, “We look forward to many residents who perhaps wouldn’t otherwise be able to buy a PC or laptop, realising the benefits of having a computer”.

A range of payment schemes have been introduced to make it feasible for everyone on benefits to be able to afford a computer. One example is a saving club that allows residents who can only afford a lower spec computer at the time of purchase, to upgrade to a higher spec computer after the time of purchase.

To prove eligibility to participate in this scheme, residents must take proof of their name, address and what benefits they are receiving to the store.

Community Computers opening hours are between 9.30am and 5pm Monday to Fridays and 10am and 2.30pm on Saturdays.

For more information call 0121 748 1500 or visit the shop at:

111-113

Shard End Crescent, Shard End.

B34 7AG