Stone Group is partnering with internet service provider, Orange, to provide PC and broadband connectivity packages worth up to £520 for each household qualifying for a Home Access Grant. Parents will be able to go to any of Orange's network of 400+ UK high-street stores to buy a Home Access package, including a laptop and/or internet connectivity, service wrapper, and support. Alternatively, they will be able to log on via an online portal through the Stone website.

The Home Access programme, announced in 2008, provides support for the purchase of computers and internet connectivity to certain low-income families with children in school years three to nine with the aim of promoting learning at home. The programme aims to assist families who would otherwise not have access to technology. Stone will be one of ten approved suppliers for the programme.

Following a successful pilot scheme in Oldham and Suffolk Local Authorities in 2009, the programme is being rolled out nationally. Its aim is to provide funding to over 270,000 households that currently lack access by March 2011.

Becta, the government agency leading the national drive to ensure the effective and innovative use of technology throughout learning, has been charged with the delivery of the Home Access programme. After successful involvement in the 2009 pilot scheme, the Stone Group has been awarded approved supplier status for the national effort.

Simon Pettit, Contracts Director of Stone Group, comments, "The thorough tender process is designed to check the potential supplier's capabilities to deliver the product and provide comprehensive telephone support for the recipients. Stone Group are delighted that, once again, the products and service it provides meets the very high standards set out by Becta."

Through the programme, approved suppliers are issued with a license to supply Home Access packages and accept the Home Access Grant as a payment method. These payments come in the form of a single-use debit card supplied to the recipient with a pre-allocated credit. The grants range in value to cover a full package (user device, service / support wrapper and connectivity), to internet connectivity as a standalone, dependant on the needs of the recipient.

Commenting on the importance of Stone Group's involvement in the scheme, Pettit adds, "It has been proven that educational attainment is improved when children have access to technology at home, making the Home Access programme vital to many families. Education is a central and important part of society, and through Stone Group's involvement with the programme, it is helping make sure that no section of the community is left wanting."