The new Government Home Access scheme helps both low-income families and families of children with special needs who currently lack access to a computer and/or internet to get online at home.

The programme is aimed at those that need it most. If you are a low-income family in receipt of certain benefits you could qualify for a grant to buy a computer and/or a minimum of one years’ internet access.

The Home Access programme will help more children in state-maintained education in England have access to technology at home to support learning. The programme was born out of the recognition that there are still a significant number of learners who lack access to a computer and the internet at home and will benefit over 270,000 households that currently lack access by March 2011.  Initially this programme will target learners in school years 3 to 9 inclusive.

Take the quick eligibility check below as you may qualify for a Home Access Grant if you answer YES to:
• three questions in Section one, and
• at least one question in Section two.

Section One:

Are you a parent or guardian responsible for and living with a child...
…who is in school years 3 to 9 inclusive?
…who attends a state-maintained school in England full time
…who has not already had a computer from a Home Access Grant or similar programme, such as Computers for Pupils?

Section Two:

Do you receive at least one of the following?
• Free school meals for your child
• Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income support
• Child Tax Credit but not Working Tax Credit and an income of less than £16,190
• Guaranteed Pension Credit (not Savings Credit)
• Income-based Employment Support Allowance
• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

If you think you qualify just call 0333 200 1004 for an application form or check out their website.

www.homeaccess.org.uk