Virgin Media O2 has extended its free data scheme for individuals struggling to pay their bills, particularly during the holiday season. The company is transforming 70 O2 stores into National Databank Hubs, providing free O2 mobile data, texts, and calls to those in need, regardless of their mobile operator. Customers can receive 25GB of free data per month for 12 months, helping them to access essential websites, manage tasks like booking medical appointments, applying for work, and staying connected with loved ones.
Research shows that 26% of Brits on low incomes are struggling to afford their mobile phone bills, with more than half saying they’d feel lonely without access to the internet or mobile data at home. Nearly eight in 10 individuals in this group say they would feel alone or isolated without mobile data over the Christmas period. To address these issues, O2 is providing free internet data during the holiday season to eligible recipients. To qualify for free data from the National Databank, individuals must be at least 18 years old, belong to a low-income household, and have insufficient access to the internet at home, away from home, or be unable to afford their existing monthly contract or top-up.
The National Databank initiative is supported by Virgin Media O2 ambassador Will Mellor, who emphasizes the importance of initiatives like this in helping underprivileged communities stay connected. The campaign aims to ensure individuals can access the internet and stay connected with loved ones, not only during the holiday season but throughout the year. Good Things Foundation CEO Helen Milner praises the expansion of the National Databank to additional O2 stores, providing more people in need with access to essential services and the ability to connect with family and friends.
The National Databank is part of Virgin Media O2’s efforts to support those in need, including offering social tariffs for individuals receiving government support payments. These initiatives, such as Essential Broadband and the O2 Essential plan, help ensure that individuals facing financial challenges can still stay connected. The new Databank Hubs located in various O2 stores across the UK are intended to serve as Digital Inclusion Hubs, providing free mobile data to individuals who meet the eligibility criteria. By expanding this program, Virgin Media O2 aims to reduce digital exclusion and provide a lifeline to those struggling with internet access.
The 70 O2 stores transformed into National Databank Hubs are spread throughout the UK in locations such as Antrim, Birmingham, Coventry, Liverpool, London, Shrewsbury, and more. These hubs aim to reach individuals in need of support with internet connectivity, especially during the busy holiday season when many individuals rely on digital communication to stay connected with loved ones. By providing free mobile data for 12 months to eligible individuals, the National Databank initiative helps bridge the digital divide and ensure that no one is left behind in the age of connectivity. With the support of ambassadors like Will Mellor and partnerships with organizations like Good Things Foundation, Virgin Media O2 is making a positive impact on the lives of those facing economic hardships and digital exclusion.
