National Databank project

As part of the National Databank project, our libraries are working with the Good Things Foundation to provide SIM cards and/or monthly mobile top-ups to people in data poverty.

National Databank project
What is data poverty? 

If you are unable to afford an internet connection to meet essential needs, you may be experiencing data poverty.  

Data poverty means that you can't do things, such as apply for a job online, bank online, or access essential services, because you have no internet connectivity. 

Which networks are taking part in this project?

Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three are taking part in the National Databank project.

    Virgin Media O2

    Virgin Media O2 is offering recipients 25GB of data, plus unlimited calls and unlimited texts each month for a period of 6 months. 

    Each month you will receive a voucher code by text from O2 that will allow you to top up.

    1. Dial 4444.
    2. Select option 1 to top up your phone.
    3. Select option 2 to top up with a voucher and then wait for the advertisement to finish.
    4. Enter the 16-digit voucher number you received in your text message.
    5. Once the automated service confirms your top up, you can hang up.
    6. You will receive a confirmation text that your top up was successful.

    If you want to keep your existing mobile number, you can port your number to your new O2 SIM card.

    Please note:  

    • Recipients can either use an existing O2 SIM card or O2 can provide a SIM card.
    • An O2 handset or an unlocked handset is required for O2 SIM cards. 
    • If you get a new SIM card and want to keep your existing phone number, you will need to obtain a PAC code from your current network provider beforehand. 
    • O2 allowances require set up, so please allow some time for this when you visiting the library.  

    Vodafone

    Vodafone is offering recipients 40GB of data, plus unlimited calls and unlimited texts each month for a period of 6 months.

    Vodafone SIMs come preloaded, which means all you have to do is insert the SIM card into your phone and you will have access to mobile data straight away. 

    Please note:  

    • Recipients must use a SIM card provided by Vodafone.
    • A Vodafone handset or an unlocked handset is required for Vodafone SIM cards. 
    • If you want to keep your existing phone number, you will need to obtain a PAC code from your current network provider beforehand. 

    Important: If you are thinking about changing network providers, it is advisable to use a coverage checker beforehand. 

    Three

    Three network is offering recipients 24GB.

    Three SIM cards come preloaded, which means all you have to do is insert the SIM card into your phone and you will have access to mobile data straight away.

    Please note:  

    • Data does not refresh.
    • Free calls and texts are not provided.
    • Recipients must use a SIM card provided by Three.
    • A Three handset or an unlocked handset is required for Three SIM cards. 
    • If you want to keep your existing phone number, you will need to obtain a PAC code from your current network provider beforehand. 

    Can I receive free data through this project? 

    To receive free mobile data through the National Databank project, you must: 

    • be 18 years old or over and 
    • live in a low-income household. 

    You must also: 

    • have no access (or insufficient access) to the internet at home and/or 
    • have no or insufficient access to the internet when away from home. 

    Refugees can also be gifted with a SIM card and free data. 

    How do I get one of these offers? 

    If you meet the criteria above, visit one of our participating libraries, taking proof of your age, and speak with a member of staff, who will be able to help. 

    You can collect SIM cards between 10am and midday and between 2pm and 4pm from the libraries, and on the dates, listed below.

    Please note: Due to constantly changing stock levels, please contact the branch before visiting.

    Delivered in partnership with the Good Things Foundation.

    Good Things Foundation

    Print this page
    Page last updated: 18 Dec 2024
    Was this page helpful?
    Yes No
    Report an issue with this page