In Luton 46% of young people live in poverty. Poverty means young people do not have all the equipment they need for learning from home, including a digital device and WiFi. The government scheme to provide digital access will only supply devices to Year 10 students (14 15 year olds) who are entitled to a free school meal. There is no provision for students in other year groups, or for young people who live in poverty but do not get a free school meal.

Without a device to work on at home, young people fall behind in their studies and miss out on developing key skills when compared to their peers.

This causes young people to worry because they know that they do not have what they need to fully participate in their studies, leaving them to feel more uncertain than ever about their future.

One Luton High School student told us I dont have a lap top and have to borrow my cousins one when she isnt using it. I get frustrated because I am falling behind with my work.