Coventry expands free data scheme

Residents of Coventry will have easier access to a free data scheme after an expansion of support for applications. 

Part of the National Databank, Coventry’s scheme to offer vouchers and pre-loaded sim cards to qualifying residents was previously only available either online or at one site but will now be open to visitors to all of the council’s family hubs and some libraries in the city.

Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources, Cllr Richard Brown said the importance of the internet drove the council’s expansion: ‘We want all our residents to be able to take advantage of the digital world regardless of background and circumstance. That is why we signed up to the National Databank in the first place. 

‘I’m pleased to see this project has expanded beyond the city centre and is reaching out into communities across the city. I hope that by making it easier for people to physically access this support we’ll encourage more people to apply.’ 

The data scheme is part of Coventry’s #CovConnects programme which ‘aims to support residents on their digital journeys’ by offering connectivity support and digital skills training to create equal access to digital technology. 

Alongside the support for mobile data connections, some residents may also be able to access a social tariff to cut broadband costs under the programme. 

To access the National Databank scheme you must be over 18 and from a low-income household, as well as matching at least one of the qualifying statements: You have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home or away from home, or you cannot afford your existing monthly contract or top up spend. 

Access to the internet has been the focus for many projects in the UK recently as local and national government organisations seek to connect low-income people and hard to reach areas including a recent project in Haringey which will install technology to provide full fibre broadband to local residents and businesses. 

Alongside visiting the hubs offering access to the databank, residents can also email covconnectsdigital@coventry.gov.uk.

Photo by Frederik Lipfert