The National Databank is providing free data to 500,000 individuals in need through the network of community partners of the Good Things Foundation in collaboration with Virgin Media O2, Vodafone, and Three.

The National Databank provides free mobile data, text messages, and phone calls to those in need through the network of Good Things Foundation’s local community partners. 

Imagine it as a ‘food bank‘ for internet connectivity data. Community organisations can petition for access to the databank, allowing them to provide data to community members who require it.

Using the work of the Data Poverty Lab as a foundation, we created the UK National Databank to assist thousands of vulnerable individuals in communities across the UK in becoming connected. The database was created with assistance from Virgin Media O2 and data contributions from Virgin Media O2, Vodafone, and Three. 

The individuals supported by the UK National Databank are cut off from the fundamental daily activities that most people in our nation take for granted. They cannot communicate with loved ones, attend job interviews, discover vital health or other information online, or access digitised public services. 

They believe that nobody should be abandoned. The UK National Databank provides free mobile internet data connectivity to individuals who cannot afford it and who frequently face multiple social inequalities in the present day. 

They want this to be just the beginning; we’re calling on the remaining mobile networks in the United Kingdom to join the National Databank and collaborate with us to end data poverty for good. 

What is data deficiency?

Data poverty is the inability to afford sufficient internet access to fulfil essential daily needs, such as accessing jobs, banking, medical appointments, and benefits.

Through our Data Poverty Lab, we hope to build upon and gain insight from existing approaches. We want to collaborate with organisations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors to develop sustainable solutions to end data poverty.

Bridging the digital divide is arduous but benefits everyone – individuals and society. Regardless of your position, you can assist by donating devices to be refurbished, becoming a supporter, or even acquiring new digital skills.

Eligibility

The person requesting a SIM card must be at least 18 years old and a resident, student, or employee of Gwynedd. To utilise this programme, membership in Gwynedd Libraries is optional. We collect personal information on the legal basis of consent and will only retain it for as long as necessary to fulfil a specific request. SIM cards are accessible while supplies last.

Guide on how to apply

  • There are 12 questions to be answered when you click on the website. 
  • Fill in the answer to these questions in as much detail as you can
  • If you are eligible, an email will be sent to your email confirming you are eligible. 
  • Then you can start paying a cheaper amount for your sim card each month.