Connecting Communities: Softcat and Cisco Meraki Support Social Bite
Project at a Glance
Softcat partnered with Cisco Meraki and Forth Tech to deliver a cloud-managed networking solution to Social Bite, a charity working to end homelessness.
The project replaced outdated infrastructure across multiple sites, improved security and performance, and ensured Social Bite could focus its resources on frontline support—all at zero cost.
worth of equipment donated Cloud-managed
cost to Social Bite
Challenge
Social Bite’s existing routers and hardware were outdated, creating security risks and limiting the performance of essential systems like POS and customer Wi-Fi. As a charity, any investment in IT infrastructure risked diverting funds from frontline services.
Critical success factors:
1
Infrastructure Replacement
Secure, high-performing networking hardware.
2
Cost Efficiency
Minimise spend to protect charitable resources.
3
Cyber Security
Reduce reputational and operational risk.
Solution
Softcat worked with Cisco Meraki and Forth Tech to deliver a tailored, cloud-managed networking solution. The package included routers, firewalls, switches, access points, and licences—all provided free of charge.
Deployment was seamless and included three years of ongoing support. Softcat also helped Social Bite secure discounted broadband installation for its new Glasgow office.
- Close collaboration between multiple providers to ensure fit-for-purpose solution
- Top-of-the-range Cisco Meraki equipment provided free of charge
- Smooth implementation with minimal interruption to ongoing operations
Results
The project enabled Social Bite to modernise its infrastructure without financial strain.
The new solution improved network performance and security, simplified IT management, and reduced the need for on-site maintenance—allowing the charity to focus on its mission.
- Provided Marketplace Knowledge and reduced operational spend to minimise impact on wider charitable work
- Centralised IT environment enabling simplified and more cost-efficient management
- Upgraded hardware and software providing internet connectivity backed by cutting edge technologies, all helping to keep the charity protected
We are so grateful for Softcat’s invaluable support over the last few years. As an organisation, they have made financial and strategic contributions to projects providing safe places to call home, real jobs, and free food with wrap-around support for long-lasting change. On behalf of everyone at Social Bite, I would like to say a big thank you to Softcat for the part they are playing in the movement to end homelessness.
Sara Rees
Director of Fundraising & Partnerships, Social Bite