Three UK has joined Good Things Foundation’s National Databank to provide free data for the charity’s network of community groups across the UK and the people they support.
The company has pledged 1 million GB of data which will help an estimated 40,000 people to get connected.
Good Things Foundation’s National Databank gives community groups across the UK access to free data – either through SIM cards or vouchers – that they can share with those who are digitally excluded and need support.
Elaine Carey, Chief Commercial Officer at Three UK, said:
“We are committed to providing better connectivity, responsibly. Having online access is something most of us take for granted, yet 6% of UK households2 don’t have this luxury.
By joining the UK National Databank, we want to help close this divide and work together to end data poverty, so everyone can benefit from the many opportunities that digital access offers.”
Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive, Good Things Foundation, said:
“We’re delighted that Three are joining the National Databank – which is helping thousands of people to get connected and to do the things many of us take for granted – like accessing the services they need, finding work or staying in touch with friends and family.
With living costs rising, people are having to make stark choices between having the data they need and heating their house or feeding their family.
The National Databank was created by Virgin Media O2, working closely with Good Things Foundation and other digital inclusion experts including Community Organisers, Operation Wi-Fi, Hubbub and Nominet, and has been gifted to Good Things Foundation to run through its network of 5,000 community groups.
Last month, Vodafone joined the National Databank, pledging 24 million gigabytes of data, enough to provide connectivity to 200,000 people for six months.
The National Databank provides a central hub where community groups can access free ‘data voucher codes’ and SIM cards for anyone who needs them. Those accessing free data will also be offered additional support – including digital skills training and signposting to other essential services.
