Free digital tablets for older people and disabled adults

Annie Mannion | 23 Jul 2026

Woman looking at computer with elderly manBeing online helps people stay connected, access essential services, and live more independently. But many older people and disabled adults still don't have the device, skills, or confidence they need to get online. 

AbilityNet and BT logo For the past four years, AbilityNet and BT have been working together to change that.

Together, we've already supported 15,000 people through more than 28,500 digital skills sessions, helping people build confidence, learn new skills, and make better use of technology. In fact, 75% of people we support say they feel less isolated and more independent*. 

Could you or someone you support benefit? 

Thanks to funding from BT, we have a number of free tablets available for eligible people who don't have a suitable device or struggle to get online with their current one. 

Recipients can also receive support to set up their device and learn how to use it, including help with: 

  • Video calling friends and family 
  • Online banking and shopping 
  • Downloading and using apps 
  • Staying safe from scams 
  • Getting connected to Wi-Fi 

 

"A lovely organisation. I've had their help in the past and they explain things in terms we 'oldies' can understand." - attendee of BT digital skills session

 

Devices are available to adults over 55 and disabled adults over 18 in the following areas: 

  • Cheshire, North Wales and South West Wales 
  • Cardiff, Swansea and the Brecon area 
  • Herefordshire 
  • North Devon 
  • Parts of Somerset and South Devon, including Portishead, Bridgwater, Exeter and Plymouth 
  • Worcestershire 
  • Essex 
  • Inverness 
  • Ayr, Irvine and Kilmarnock 
  • North Glasgow and Stirling 

Apply or refer someone today 

Visit Digital Skills Training for Older People and Disabled Adults to register interest. 

If eligible, we'll arrange a chat, deliver the device, and help the recipient get started. 

Apply for a free device now

Organisations: help us reach more people 

We're also looking for charities, community groups, housing providers and other organisations to help connect people with free devices and support. Together, we've already helped dozens of people get online who might otherwise have been left behind. 

If your organisation supports eligible people, we'd love to hear from you. Email: digitalskills@abilitynet.org.uk

Eligibility criteria apply. 

*Source: Empowering older adults: How AbilityNet and BT are transforming digital skills

Further resources

AbilityNet provides a range of free services to help disabled people and older people. If you can afford it, please donate to help us support older and disabled people through technology