Avoira marks 50th Birthday by teaming up with Age UK Bury to tackle isolation and exclusion

Local tech firm Avoira has marked its golden anniversary by donating 50 Amazon Alexa smart speakers to Age UK Bury.

The devices will help the local charity tackle loneliness, digital exclusion and assist it in further supporting older residents across the borough. They will be of particular value to those who lack mobility, have a visual impairment, or feel socially isolated.

They promote inclusion by enabling voice-controlled access to music, audiobooks, weather updates, and easy communication with friends and family. For individuals who may struggle with smartphones or computers, voice technology offers a simple and accessible way to stay connected and independent.

Bury North MP James Frith joined Avoira’s managing director Andrew to formally present the devices to Ania Stark-Ketcher, chief executive of Age UK Bury at the charity’s Jubilee Centre.They were joined by Jill Logan, chief executive of Bury Blind Society which works alongside Age UK in supporting local people with visual impairments.

Mr Roberts commented: “As we celebrate 50 years in business, it was important for us to give back in a way that reflects who we are as an organisation.

“Technology should improve lives and create connection, not barriers. During the pandemic, we saw first-hand how significant simple communication tools were in supporting vulnerable people, and we hope these Alexa devices will continue to help reduce isolation and support independence across the community.”

Mr Frith MP added: “I’m delighted to support this initiative from Avoira. Loneliness and digital exclusion remain significant challenges for many older people in Bury.

“Providing accessible technology such as these Alexa devices is a practical and innovative way to help people stay informed, connected, and independent. It’s encouraging to see a local business celebrating its milestone anniversary by investing directly back into our community.”

Ms Ketcher, Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Bury, thanked the company for its support: “This generous donation from Avoira will make a real and immediate impact on the lives  of people 50 and over across our community.

“Voice activated technology can be transformative for individuals who may struggle with traditional devices, helping them stay connected, informed, and supported.

“We’re especially pleased to be working closely with our colleagues at Bury Blind Society, as many of the people we support together will benefit from these Alexa devices. Partnerships like this show how organisations can come together to improve digital inclusion and support the independence, safety, and wellbeing of older and vulnerable residents in Bury.”

The Alexa donation builds on Avoira’s ongoing support for the charity. During the COVID-19 pandemic Avoira supplied Age UK Bury with mobile phones and SIM cards to enable its befriending service to continue operating during restrictions.

At a time when face-to-face contact was not possible, those devices became a vital lifeline, ensuring people 50 and over could remain connected and supported. The phones remain in active use today and continue to play an important role in the charity’s outreach work.

The devices will be distributed by Age UK Bury to service users who would benefit most, with guidance provided to ensure safe and effective use. The partnership highlights the important role businesses can play in supporting community wellbeing, strengthening digital inclusion, and delivering meaningful social value.

Founded in 1976, Salford Street based Avoira provides consultancy, installation, and ongoing support services across IT, communications, audio-visual, and digital solutions. This anniversary donation reflects the company’s continued commitment to innovation, community engagement, and responsible business practice.