Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael is encouraging people in Orkney and Shetland to recommend charities who they feel would benefit from Microsoft’s software donation programme.

In an effort to strengthen and support the UK voluntary sector, Microsoft invests in several programmes designed to help voluntary and community organisations make the best use of their technology.

A range of support is available including free upgrades for two years and access to e-learning resources. Since the launch of this programme in 2006, Microsoft has supported over 4400 UK charities, donating software with a retail value of more than £30 million.

Mr Carmichael commented:

‘Computers and software are an important part of the work of many charities in the Northern Isles, but I know that these technologies do not often come cheap. This scheme is a great opportunity for groups to receive free software and access resources that otherwise may have been too expensive.

‘Five voluntary and community organisations in Orkney and Shetland have already received a donation and many more could benefit, as Microsoft do not limit the number of awards they hand out.

‘I would encourage all those who know of a charity who could benefit from this scheme to consider making a nomination.’

People or groups interested in this scheme can visit www.ctxchange.org or contact Mr Carmichael’s office for further information.