Highland families set to benefit from Connecting Scotland scheme with imminent arrival of new technology

10th February 2021

Highland Council is expecting delivery of 617 tablets and laptops this week through the Connecting Scotland scheme.

This is excellent news which will ensure our most vulnerable children, young people and families are not digitally excluded.

The roll-out is also being supported by Mi-Fi devices which will help ensure connectivity with unlimited data for families for up to two years.

Highland Council is due to receive 307 full sized (10.2") iPads and 310 Google Chromebooks this week.

Those who receive a device will also have access to Digital Champions in Highland Council to help support them to use their devices and connectivity to maximum effect.

The news was delivered today to members of the Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Committee by Head of Integrated Children's Services, Ian Kyle.

Chair of the Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Committee, Cllr Linda Munro, said: "This is indeed fantastic news and the scheme will ensure that children, young people and families can participate fully in child's plan and child protection meetings.

"It will also allow children's views to be gathered online and young people eligible for aftercare support can access this remotely."

She added: "Young people and families currently unable to access services because they live in rural areas will receive a more equitable service by being connected to support services Highland wide and beyond."