- Salford Council and Virgin Media O2 have provided 150 devices and data-packed O2 SIM cards to local residents as part of the ‘Salford Big Device Giveaway’
- The devices were distributed at five separate community events designed to tackle digital exclusion where local residents could also access digital skills sessions to help them effectively use their new technology
- Volunteers from Virgin Media O2 were on hand to support the community and share information about affordable broadband options through the company’s social tariffs.
Salford – Thousands of families are now benefitting from free devices, data and digital skills thanks to an innovative partnership between the council and Virgin Media O2.
Through their Big Device Giveaway programme, the two organisations have, over several months, organised five engaging community events, bringing together 1,023 residents to promote digital inclusion and broaden access to technology.
Across the events, a total of 625 devices were distributed to individuals and families in need, ensuring people across the community have the tools they need to connect with essential online services. Follow-up skills sessions were also organised with 165 residents signing up to make the most of their new devices and enhance their digital skills.
In addition to the devices, O2 SIM cards were provided through the National Databank, to ensure those in need can stay connected. Available at more than 2,500 locations nationwide, the National Databank was founded by Virgin Media O2 with charity, Good Things Foundation, and is like a foodbank but for free O2 data, texts and calls. People in need can get 25GB of free O2 data per month for up to 12 months – which is enough for around 275 hours of internet browsing per month – as well as access to O2 Priority and inclusive EU Roaming.
A local resident, Jason, who attended the event in Broughton and was supported with a free tablet and SIM card said: “This will really help me, I’m going to use these for work. I’m planning on signing up for a management college course and a Disability Job Fair in Manchester.
“It’s really hard to get back into applying for jobs, especially when you’re trying to remember everything you want to say in your head. This tablet will really help with writing CVs and applying for jobs. It will help me get the right support.”
Commenting on the initiative, Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “This project embodies our commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access essential connectivity. We are thrilled to have partnered with Salford Council on this initiative, as we believe that by providing devices, connectivity, training, and ongoing support, we can empower individuals and strengthen the local community.”
Volunteers from Virgin Media O2 also participated in the events through the company’s industry leading volunteering scheme, Take FIVE, to offer further support and guidance to attendees. At the events, volunteers shared information on the operator’s social tariffs, Essential Broadband and Essential Broadband+, which provide affordable broadband services for those on low incomes and in receipt of benefits. The company also offers a mobile social tariff, O2 Essential Plan, providing customers with unlimited calls, texts and 10GB data for just £10 a month.
Councillor Tracy Kelly, Salford City Council’s Lead Member for Housing and Anti-Poverty, said: “Bridging the digital divide in Salford and supporting residents who are digitally excluded is vital. Having access to a digital device makes a huge difference to the lives of our residents.
“Empowering residents with the tools and skills they need to safely navigate the online world and ensure that residents have access and capacity to use digital technologies is crucial.
“This work forms part of our city’s ambition to become a Digital City, an ambition which forms part of our wider vision and corporate plan for a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive city for all.”
Councillor Nick Peel, GMCA Lead for Digital said: “This scheme shows the council’s commitment to bridging the digital divide. By providing essential technology and training to our residents, we are not only driving forward digital literacy but also ensuring that everyone in Greater Manchester has the opportunity to access the benefits of an increasingly digital world.”
“Digital inclusion is crucial for social equity, economic growth, and community well-being, and initiatives like the Big Device Giveaway are pivotal in driving forward our vision of a digitally inclusive society.”
Virgin Media O2 is dedicated to promoting digital inclusion and is continually seeking ways to support local communities. This partnership with Salford Council is just one example of the company’s ongoing efforts to make a positive impact.
To find out more about Salford’s Big Device Giveaway events and to access digital support in Salford visit: https://digitalinclusion.salford.gov.uk/
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