Libraries offer free SIM cards to help people stay connected
New initiative targets digital poverty across Northamptonshire
People in North Northamptonshire who are struggling to afford internet access can now receive free SIM cards from selected local libraries as part of a scheme to tackle digital exclusion.
The initiative, delivered through a partnership between North Northamptonshire Council and the charity Good Things Foundation, will see SIM cards provided by Vodafone, Virgin Media O2 and Three made available at five libraries.
Irthlingborough, Kettering, Oundle, Rushden and Wellingborough libraries are taking part in the first phase, with plans to expand the scheme to Corby in future.
The SIM cards aim to help people stay connected by providing mobile data, calls and texts for a limited period, ranging from a month to up to a year depending on the provider.
Emma Stone, Director of Evidence and Engagement at Good Things Foundation, said the programme builds on work first introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“When we set it up, access to the internet was a real lifeline,” she said. “We’ve now grown from working with around 35 organisations to more than 4,000 across the UK, and over 400,000 data packages have been given out to people who really need them.”
She said the need for support had continued amid rising living costs.
“Ofcom data shows nearly two million households across the UK are struggling to pay for mobile connectivity,” she said. “For around a million households, even discounted tariffs are still unaffordable.”
Ms Stone said digital access was now essential for everyday life, with people needing it to apply for jobs, manage benefits and access healthcare.
“There’s no point having a smartphone unless you have the mobile data,” she added. “Without it, people can be locked out of essential services and opportunities.”
She also challenged the perception that digital exclusion primarily affects older people.
“Actually, digital poverty cuts across all ages,” she said. “Families with children can be particularly hard hit because of the demand for data for things like schoolwork.”
Local libraries were chosen to deliver the scheme because of their role as trusted community spaces.
“Libraries have always been places where people can go for free Wi-Fi and support,” she said. “This is a natural extension, helping people stay connected not just in the library but at home and on the move.”
Library staff in North Northamptonshire say they regularly see residents struggling with both access to technology and affordability.
Clare Boughton, area manager for North Northamptonshire Libraries, said people often rely on library computers to complete essential tasks.
“We have families who are working very hard but simply don’t have enough money to cover data costs,” she said. “They come in to use our public computers to do things like apply for jobs or access support services.”
She said the scheme would allow people to carry out those tasks independently.
“Simple things like booking a GP appointment at 8am can be missed if you have to wait for the library to open,” she said. “With a data SIM, people can do that from home and not lose that opportunity.”
Ms Boughton said staff were already helping distribute SIM cards and had seen a positive response.
“The very fact that you can have a conversation with someone in need and offer a solution there and then is fantastic,” she said.
She added that libraries would also continue to provide support for people lacking digital skills.
“Our team members are very knowledgeable and can guide people step by step,” she said. “No question is a stupid question – we’ll sit with them and work through whatever they need.”