Redefining IT asset disposal - for good
The National Device Bank was born from a critical need identified during the Covid-19 pandemic. After initially providing 17,000 new devices to those in need, we recognised that purchasing new tech was neither financially nor environmentally sustainable.
So, in 2022, Good Things Foundation set a new standard for secure and responsible IT asset disposal or disposition (ITAD). In partnership with Reconome and over 90 private and public sector organisations we have promoted circularity, turning decommissioned IT assets into digital inclusion impact. So far, we have achieved:
- 28,000+ devices distributed to people in need.
- 159,000kg of e-waste diverted from landfills.
- 18,000 tonnes of CO2e emissions avoided through reuse.
Leading the 'IT Reuse for Good' movement
In 2025 we collaborated with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), VodafoneThree and DeloitteUK to launch the first government-backed charter ‘IT Reuse for Good’, advocating for organisations to consider reusing their tech for social good. Organisations that contribute IT assets to support the National Device Bank can become signatories of this charter.
We undertook research into the barriers and enablers of tech reuse and provided best-practice guidance for the public sector to improve the quality of devices made available for refurbishment. We also partnered with the University of Liverpool to develop guidance for organisations considering setting up an IT Reuse for Good Scheme.
A sustainable future for the National Device Bank
In January 2026 Reconome became our exclusive tech partner with the aim of getting even more devices into the hands of those that need them. Our partnership fundamentally transforms the National Device Bank, creating a sustainable, long term solution and building on our learning and impact so far.
Together, we are committed to providing 85,000 devices to individuals in need by June 2029.
Hear how repurposing devices impacts people's lives
"With my tablet I can do online shopping, tutorials and I get to see a lot of what my grandchildren are up to... If it was taken away from me I'd be completely lost... It's given me more freedom. It's opened up a new world I didn't even know was out there, really."
- Babs, supported with a tablet through the National Device Bank
Who has contributed devices to the National Device Bank
How you can help
Through our partnership with Reconome, your organisation can powerfully contribute to our mission. We are inviting organisations across the public and private sectors to repurpose IT for good and help us reach 85,000 people.
Join the IT Reuse for Good movement
We're proud to have worked with DSIT, VodafoneThree and Deloitte to develop the IT Reuse for Good Charter, calling on public and private sector organisations to shift the dial by taking a ‘reuse first’ approach to IT assets. Be counted in the first 500 organisations to sign the Charter to help:
- Change lives in the UK - giving quality second-life devices to people who urgently need them
- Elevate your Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance achievements
- Boost your Net Zero contribution
- Shout about how your organisation is innovating to drive up inclusion and sustainability
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve developed a Playbook to help answer your questions and make the case for change.
