KCOM creates new digital horizons with latest Community Grants

KCOM is creating new digital opportunities for groups across the region thanks to its latest Community Grants.

The Hull-based provider, which provides the UK’s most reliable broadband, has announced four new grants that will boost school STEM and breakfast clubs, provide laptops and enable young people in foster care to explore new horizons online.

KCOM’s Community Impact Partner Louise Babych said: “It’s always inspiring to see first-hand the passion and dedication behind each charity and organisation. Our community grant winners represent the heart of our communities - we’re proud to support their work that boosts digital inclusion in an increasingly online world and help bring their ideas to life.”

St James CE Academy, a Bransholme primary school, will use its grant to enhance its breakfast and after school clubs with exciting new STEM opportunities. Following a recent visit for Internet Safety Day with KCOM, pupils shared their enthusiasm for robotics and coding - activities they don’t typically experience during the school day.

With a grant of £980, the school will purchase robotic and coding sets to support children attending breakfast and after-school clubs, helping them build valuable skills in a fun and engaging way.

Teaching Assistant Lisa Priestman said: "We’d really like to say a huge thank you to KCOM for awarding us a KCOM Community Grant. The funds from the grant will be used for the children who attend our breakfast/after school clubs, enabling them to build on their STEM skills."

Located in Old Goole, Moorlands Community Charity serves a neighbourhood ranked within the 10% most deprived areas in England. As a vital youth and community hub, it provides essential services to people of all ages.

Their £836 grant will fund upgraded digital equipment, including laptops that can be used flexibly across their space - supporting everything from youth workshops to confidential advice sessions and operational tasks.

Head of Operations Janet O’Toole said: "This is going to be an amazing support because we'll be able to use the laptops in any of our rooms and not just the computer suite. This allows us to diversify and help people who need a quiet space or for information to remain confidential.”

Hull Fostering, part of Hull City Council, plays a vital role in recruiting and supporting foster carers for the city’s looked-after children. Their £500 grant will help fund a dedicated Digital Zone at Foster Fest 2026 - a celebration event for Hull’s fostering community.

The Digital Zone will offer hands-on activities such as coding games, digital creativity stations and interactive tech experiences, giving children and young people the opportunity to explore new interests and build confidence.

Recruitment, Retention and Marketing Officer Laura Gawthorpe said: "We’re incredibly grateful to KCOM for choosing Hull Fostering as a recipient of their Community Grant. Their generous contribution will help us create a dedicated Digital Zone at Foster Fest, giving children and young people in care the chance to explore technology in a fun, creative and confidence building way.”

Finally, the new Hedon and District Men in Sheds is dedicated to promoting social inclusion by providing a welcoming environment where individuals can connect, share experiences and learn new skills.

Its £500 grant will support the development of a permanent base for its activities, creating a much-needed space for community building.

Mentor Tony Sporney said: "We’re incredibly grateful to KCOM for supporting our mission at such a crucial stage. Our shed will be a place where people can come together, find companionship, and rediscover purpose. This donation brings us one step closer to creating a much-needed space that will benefit our community for years to come."

For more information on our Community Grants, head over to our page here.