1,000 smartphones donated to Coventry residents this Christmas
Coventry City Council have connected with Virgin Media O2 to help more residents get online
People in Coventry have benefitted from increased digital access this Christmas, thanks to a donation of 1,000 refurbished smartphones and O2 mobile data from Virgin Media O2.
The devices are part of the company’s ongoing partnership with Coventry City Council through the #CovConnects programme, which tackles digital exclusion and electronic waste.
The donation, provided via Virgin Media O2’s Community Calling programme in collaboration with environmental charity Hubbub, will see working smartphones rehomed to those who need them most.
This includes people experiencing financial hardship, long-term health conditions, domestic violence, or temporary accommodation.
The devices have bee distributed through the council’s Device Bank – a tech version of a food bank – throughout the Christmas period and will carry on into 2026.
Councillor Richard Brown, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Strategic Resources, added: “This donation will be a lifeline for many Coventry residents who can't afford to get online.
"Today, digital access is essential for everything from job searches to healthcare appointments. Our #CovConnects programme ensures people aren't excluded from vital services simply because they lack a device or data.
“We're proud to partner with Virgin Media O2 on this innovative approach that tackles both digital exclusion and electronic waste. It's a win-win – giving devices a second life while helping our residents stay connected to the services and people that matter most.”