MORE than 500 laptops will be handed out to poorer pupils across Greater Manchester who are struggling to get online while schools are closed during the coronavirus lockdown.

Schools and colleges are working with the combined authority to help "digitally isolated" youngsters stay in touch with teachers, friends and family.

It comes after the government announced that devices will be ordered for Year 10 pupils studying for their GCSEs, as well as those who have a social worker or have left care.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority will invest £150,000 in digital kit bundles which will be given to those on free school meals (FSM) as a priority.

FSM-eligible pupils account for nearly a fifth of learners in the city-region, and it is estimated that levels of digital isolation are up to four times higher in schools with the highest numbers of disadvantaged pupils.

Mayor Andy Burnham fears that disadvantaged students could fall further behind their peers without extra support.

He said: “Our young people deserve every chance to fulfil their potential.

“Having the tools to continue their education and positively engage in their communities is integral to that during these challenging times.

“There are many young people in our city-region who have become digitally excluded in recent weeks, unable to complete schoolwork online or connect digitally with family and friends outside of their home.”

The combined authority’s initial investment will be kept in a regional technology fund, which will receive further backing from Virgin Media Business.

But Mr Burnham is hoping that local businesses who are in a position to help can support the "vital" project and "make sure that no young person is left behind".

Firms are being asked to give money where possible, or to donate new or refurbished devices such as laptops, sim cards, portable hotspots or dongles.

Mo Isap and Lou Cordwell, co-chairs of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership, say the regional business community "always steps up in a crisis".

They added: “We are so proud to see the countless selfless acts from businesses across the city-region that are helping people get through these incredibly difficult times

“We know the challenges businesses are facing but if your business can help to provide laptops, sim cards, portable hotspots, dongles or financial donations to the fund, please come forward.”

Businesses able to support young people through this important fund, can contact the combined authority’s digital team at GMCADigital@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk.