Partnership delivers digital skills training and refurbished laptops across Birmingham
Serco, in partnership with ReCognition Circular, has successfully delivered a computer refurbishment programme that is creating new opportunities for Restart Scheme participants while supporting communities across Birmingham.
ReCognition Circular, a community interest company specialising in IT refurbishment and digital inclusion, worked alongside SCC, an IT company based on the same site, to help create additional employment pathways for participants.
The programme achieved strong engagement, with 28 individuals referred and 24 attending an initial information session.
From these, 19 participants started the course and 18 completed it. One participant secured employment during the programme, with a further five moving into work after completion, including one with SCC.
Participants developed practical, hands-on skills in diagnosing, repairing, and refurbishing laptops.
On completion, all participants received a certificate and a refurbished laptop to support their progression into employment.
The partnership has continued beyond the course, with Serco and ReCognition Circular working together to refurbish faulty laptops for donation. These devices are helping community organisations improve access to digital tools, training, and employment support.
A key example of this impact is the collaboration with the Birmingham Device Bank and ReCognition Circular, which saw 10 refurbished laptops donated to the British Red Cross.
These devices are now enabling asylum seekers attending ESOL and integration courses in Birmingham to access digital skills training for the first time.
To date, Serco has donated over 90 laptops for refurbishment, supporting a range of local organisations and widening access to technology across the region.
This initiative highlights the value of partnership working in driving social value, sustainability, and inclusive growth across Birmingham’s business community.
Visit the website for more information on the Restart Scheme.
Pictured from left to right: David Abosch from ReCognition Circular & Birmingham Device Bank, Asma Pathan from British Red Cross, Lisa Ellis from Serco, and John Davies from British Red Cross
