Click for a grant to get online
Published Thursday 10th June 10 in Council - news and information releases news
Struggling on a low income? You might qualify for a Government grant to help you get online at home.
The Home Access Grant - which could help you buy a computer and/or a year's free internet access - is aimed at families with a child in school years three to nine who receives free school meals.
This normally means the household's annual income is less that £16,040.
Looked-after children may also be eligible for a grant. Southend-on-Sea Borough Council would apply for this on their behalf.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Children & Learning, Councillor Roger Hadely, said: "Children who have access to technology at home tend to do better in school exams, to learn and achieve more, and to have fun while they're doing it.
"Home Access also benefits the whole family because parents can find out more about what, and how, their children are doing at school.
"It will help families sign up for online courses, apply for jobs online, access online Government Services and save money.
"Using the internet to shop for everyday items and pay household bills could save around £40-a- month, or around £500-a-year."
If you think you might qualify for a Home Access Grant, call 0333-200 1004 for an application pack, or visit http://misco.co.uk/homeaccess
Families who are not eligible for a the grant may still be able to buy a Home Access package from High Street retailers or other suppliers approved by the programme.
For more information about this media release please call the press desk on 01702-215000 ext 5505 or e-mail media@southend.gov.uk