Charity aims to connect more people
The Good Things Foundation say it's estimated 1.9 million households will be feeling isolated
A quarter of people with low income (those with household incomes less than £15,000), are experiencing data poverty and are struggling to afford their mobile phone bills, according to research.
Meanwhile, nearly eight in 10 (78%) say they’d feel alone or isolated if they didn’t have mobile data over the Christmas period and couldn’t connect with their family or friends.
In addition, a further 62% would miss out on sending festive messages or photos or videos from their Christmas celebrations, if they didn’t have mobile data.
A further 70 O2 stores have become National Databank Hubs, as part of the scheme involving charity Good Things Foundation.
The extra connectivity will support people experiencing data poverty to access essential websites and manage everyday tasks, such as booking medical appointments, applying for work, and online training, as well as helping them keep in touch with loved ones.
Those most in need can get easy access to a free O2 SIM with 25GB of monthly data for 12 months.
Helen Milner is Group Chief Executive for the charity:
"Being excluded may stop access to basic things. We feel as well, however, connection is all the more important at this time of year.
"Ability to afford access is genuinely important. I think we need to stress that there is help at hand."