New internet café for people experiencing homelessness to open in Bury
How Autotrader, Community Computers and Red Door Project Are Tackling Digital Exclusion Together
In the heart of Bury, a quiet transformation is taking place. Local charity Caritas’ Red Door Centre, which is a vital lifeline for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness and housing insecurity, is about to open a new internet café, thanks to a partnership with Autotrader and Community Computers. It’s a story of old technology finding new purpose, and of digital access creating new futures.
A Centre of Support and Sanctuary
Adrian from Community Computers recently visited the Caritas Red Door Centre and met with Mike, the centre manager, to gain a first-hand view of its daily operations. The centre runs five days a week, providing drop-in services, warm meals, and access to crucial support. Breakfast and lunch are served midweek, but that’s just the beginning.
The Caritas Red Door Centre is much more than a food provider. It acts as a gateway to holistic support. Rough sleeper outreach teams, mental health workers, healthcare professionals, and tenancy advisors all operate from the centresupporting people experiencing homelessness or poverty. Whether someone is rough sleeping, sofa surfing, or struggling to pay energy bills, the Red Door team is often the first port of call for help.
Mike and Emma at the Caritas Red Door Centre
Bridging the Digital Divide
A trained staff member will be on hand to support users in developing their digital confidence and skills. The café is not just about using technology, it’s about equipping individuals with the tools to transform their lives.
From Donation to Empowerment
This initiative is only possible because of the repurposing work of Community Computers. The organisation takes in unwanted devices from corporate donors like Autotrader and securely wipes and refurbishes them. Donors receive data-erasure certificates, sustainability impact reports, and peace of mind that their devices are contributing to the community.
For Autotrader, the donation of these devices is not just a gesture of goodwill, it’s part of a circular economy solution that creates social impact and reduces electronic waste.
A Place Where Change Happens
The impact of this internet café goes far beyond screen time. The people who visit the Caritas Red Door Centre, many of whom are experiencing poverty, homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless, will now be able to access online services that are essential in today’s society. Some will go on to further training through partnerships with organisations like Bury Adult Learning. Others may become volunteers themselves, gaining confidence, giving back, and becoming part of the centre’s ongoing story.
Every detail of Caritas Red Door’s work is shaped by those it serves. Those who use the centre are involved in deciding everything from meal menus to decorations and service activities or the support they receive. This co-produced approach ensures the services are rooted in real needs and lived experience.
Gratitude and Growth
Mike, the centre manager, expressed heartfelt thanks to Autotrader for their support and for understanding the real-world impact these refurbished laptops will have. For many, they represent more than just access, they represent opportunity, inclusion, and hope.
Through the joint efforts of Autotrader, Community Computers, and the Caritas Red Door Centre, a digital door is opening in Bury, one that leads to connection, confidence, and a better tomorrow.
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