Level Up FAQs

We are accepting all laptops in working order that are running Windows 7, 8 or 10. This usually means they are less than 10 years old. We are no longer accepting laptops running Windows XP or Windows Vista as these are proving too slow to cope with online learning requirements.
Please complete the donation form, giving the make and model number if possible. (NB. the make and model number is often found on the underside of the laptop).

We take data security very seriously. We will remove the hard drive from the majority of donated laptops and replace it with a new SSD. The old hard drives will be physically destroyed by incineration.
If the laptop is relatively new with an SSD, we may securely wipe the SSD using “Parted Magic” taking the device back to factory settings; before reinstalling Windows 10.
If you are still concerned about data security, you have the option to remove the hard drive from your laptop, before donating it. (Please replace the bracket and screws.)

Yes – we can purchase new power cables.
(Please have a good look for it first though – to save us the cost!)

During lockdown, we will collect your laptop from your home or business at an agreed date and time. Please register via the online form and we will contact you to arrange a collection date.
We also have a drop off point outside Raven House, 29 Linkfield Lane, Redhill, RH1 1SS. Laptops are collected daily Monday to Friday from Raven House. However, please ensure you comply with the government guidance and only use this drop off point if you are local to Redhill.

We are currently collecting laptops from neighbouring boroughs and across Surrey (up to around a 20 mile radius from Redhill).
We may assess the number of devices being offered and their age, when determining whether to make a collection journey. If you live further away, it is likely that it will take longer before we are able to collect your device. (Some people have sent messages around their neighbours to increase the number of laptops available and make the collection more viable.)
Please also see our post on “Other places to donate“. We are encouraging people to donate locally wherever possible.

The laptop will be gifted to a child or young person attending school or college in Reigate & Banstead. All devices are being distributed via schools and colleges in the borough – they are best placed to decide which children are in greatest need of the laptops. A few laptops are also being distributed via local charities that are working with families in need. The Level Up project does not have any direct contact with children or young people.

No charge is made to schools.
The Level Up project is currently funded by Raven Housing Trust and Pfizer – covering expenses and the cost of new parts. We have also received some donations from members of the public. The refurbishment work is undertaken by technical volunteers. This enables us to provide the devices free of charge to schools.

Yes. Please let us know when you donate the laptop if you want it to go to a particular school. (If your chosen school no longer has any outstanding requirements for laptops for its pupils, then the laptop will be allocated to the closest school.)

All the laptops are distributed via schools (or family support charities). Please request a laptop through your school. If your school is not yet part of Level Up, then please ask them to get in touch levelup@ravenht.org.uk