When Sam* arrived in the UK as an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child, they were not only trying to rebuild their life in a new country; they were also trying to learn a new language, continue their education and imagine a future for themselves. With no contact with their birth family, having a reliable source of support, information and connectivity mattered.
The digital barrier
Sam was studying English at a local college and hoped to progress to A Levels, with the long-term ambition of going to university and becoming a vet. But without their own laptop, those ambitions were harder to reach. They could not easily complete coursework, study independently, access online information, or use digital tools to support their English language development. In practice, the lack of a device meant the digital world that many young people rely on for learning and connection was not fully open to them.
What the grant made possible
Through a Point North grant, Sam received a laptop, anti-virus software, Microsoft Office and a laptop bag. This practical package gave them safe, reliable access to the tools they needed to learn, communicate and take part more fully in daily life.
From isolation to connection
The timing of the grant was especially important. During lockdown, Sam’s laptop helped them stay connected with professionals and support networks at a time when isolation could have easily deepened. It also enabled them to continue improving their English while accessing information in their native language, helping them understand what was happening around them and feel more informed, included and in control.
For Sam, the laptop was more than equipment. It meant being able to study from home, complete coursework, stay focused and keep moving forward. It gave them a bridge to language, learning, confidence and future opportunity — all of which are essential for a young person building a life after uncertainty.
Difference Point North grants make
For young people across County Durham, Tees Valley, Tyne and Wear and the wider North East, digital exclusion can limit education, independence, communication and confidence.
By funding essential digital equipment, Point North grants help remove those barriers.
In Sam’s case, the grant helped ensure that their circumstances did not define their access to learning, connection or opportunity. It gave them the tools to participate, progress and keep working towards the future they want to build.
*Note: ‘Sam’ is a pseudonym. Their real name has been changed to protect their privacy and safety.