Donation of tablets help people stay connected
The people we support across Brandon have received a much-needed boost to their wellbeing through a generous donation of personal tablet devices from technology service provider, CHG-MERIDIAN.
The importance of staying connected
As the start of the COVID-19 lockdown, our staff teams were concerned that the people we support may become distressed as a result of not be able to see family and friends in person.
Rich Burgin, our Head of IS, leapt into action and reached out to our IT technology partner to see if they could help.
Vital donation
Having worked with Brandon since 2015, they were keen to help. Sam Thomson, our Account Manager at CHG said:
"Brandon has been a loyal customer of CHG-MERIDIAN's for over five years, so when they approached me asking for support regarding the vital donation, I was more than happy to do everything we could to help.
“Fortunately, we had 126 suitable devices, on-site locally and ready to be delivered less than a week later."
Reducing the impact
On hearing the fantastic news, Brandon’s Chief Executive, Sue Porto said:
“We were blown away by the speed of CHG’s response and the generosity of their donation of the tablet devices for the people we support. I cannot understate the difference that they will make from those who will benefit from them.
“The changes to all our lives that have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic have been challenging for all of us, and even more so for some of the people we support who may be less able to understand why family and friends can no longer visit. Being able to stay in touch with loved ones using these tablets will make a real difference and help significantly lessen the impact of an upsetting change in routine.”
Enhancing lives
Kelly, a locality manager in Cornwall, shared one young man’s delight:
"Aiden was so shocked and surprised and could not believe he had this for free. He kept asking when he had to return it! You made his day, you really did. He's now able to make video calls to his girlfriend, who he can't see at the moment."
In North Somerset, one of the donated tablets is presenting Giles with lots of new opportunities. Team leader Carly, explained:
"The tablet donated to Giles has gone down a storm. He's currently doing puzzles and colouring. We're looking at other apps including online shopping, that will enhance his life. Thanks, from Giles."
Thanks to CHG-MERIDIAN, more than 100 people with a learning disability, autism or both, can chat ‘face to face’ with their loved ones – which is playing a vital role in keeping their emotional wellbeing on track.
Can you support us?
If your organisation or business can support Brandon, we’d love to hear from you, please get in touch with us: info@brandontrust.org
