National Databank access expands to overcome digital exclusion at Christmas

The initiative was launched in 2021 and works in the same way as a food bank, but for online connectivity.

Virgin Media O2’s National Databank is available at O2 high street stores across the UK, allowing people to access free mobile data, texts and calls fro 12 months, opening doorways to essential online services. 

With the latest expansion, the complementary service can be utilised at 70 individual locations nationally, helping many people overcome digital poverty and exclusion during the Christmas period. 

‘We know that people experiencing poverty are having to make difficult choices around how they spend their money – but affording mobile data shouldn’t be one of them,’ said Nicola Green, chief communications officer at Virgin Media O2. 

Earlier this year, we reported on a new device bank in Coventry run by tech charity Jangala, in partnership with Virgin Media O2, offering vulnerable people, including those living in temporary accommodation, access to tech and digital support. 

According to the UK Consumer Digital Index, compiled by Lloyds Bank, there are currently 4.7million people in Britain who cannot access the internet at all, 2.1million of who are considered to be ‘offline’ either through choice or wider circumstances. 

This is particularly problematic considering the Downing Street’s focus on increasing the provision of citizen services through digital portals. This includes the rollout of the One Login system, data quality and integration, and improved collaboration between departments. Meanwhile, Salesforce just reported the UK is now ‘way ahead of G7 rivals’ in adopting artificial intelligence. 

More on data management: 

‘Data doomsday’ approaches as energy demand outstrips supply

Business leaders claim data is easy to use, IT staff struggle

CCS looks to private companies for guidance on £4.2bn transport technology spend

Image: Joshua Mayo via Unsplash