Stories from the Network: 4MNet break down barriers for marginalised women

4MNet give data and devices to the women they work with. They say: 

“The women we support face unique and complex gendered issues, including societal and self-stigma, mental health issues, intimate partner violence, immigration, and low incomes or poverty. The majority of them are black migrant women who face marginalisation and structural barriers throughout their life.

“Digital and data poverty is a prominent issue for women, especially from minority communities. Some mothers live in shared homes and don’t have access to suitable devices or data. It also causes further isolation from an inability to access virtual education, health and social services and support. Receiving data and devices has provided a highly needed resource to the women we support who often face intersectional barriers that make devices like these the lowest on their long list of important needs."

"It has enabled us as an organisation with no core funding, by enhancing our capacity to address digital access and improve quality of life for women and their families.

“25 women have received tablets and data. Most are young mothers with young children and migrants living in Temporary shared accommodation. Supporting them with data and devices has improved their quality of life, as they are now able to study and join our Zoom webinars, help their children with homework, undertake safeguarding training and ongoing online activities.

“4MNet, the women we support and their families really appreciate the support provided and would like to say a huge thank you to Good Things Foundation’s National Device Bank and National Data Bank for the vital support.”  

Here's what 4Mnet's beneficiaries had to say:

“Thank you so much for the tablet . Now I will be able to have good zoom coverage and do my CV as I don’t have to use the local library.”

“I just wanted to say thank you so much for the tablet. My son is really happy now he can do his homework at home.”

“The tablet is such a lifesaver. It keeps my son busy whenever I need me time.’’