FAMILIES that rely on foodbanks can access free internet and phone services through a new Vodafone scheme.
Vodafone will provide free web access to one person for each new and existing customer that buys its broadband and mobile package Together.
The telecoms firm will offer a SIM card and internet access to a cash-strapped family for one year for each Together package purchased.
It will also donate web access for each existing Together package – so if you're already a customer you don't need to take any further steps to help out a family in need.
Around 1million families are expected to benefit from the Buy One Give One scheme.
If you are a food bank user, you could receive a phone and a SIM card with 20GB of data and free texts and calls each month – plus training on how to use them.
The scheme will be rolled out from this summer.
The Trussell Trust, which provides emergency food to poor families, will use its 1,300 food bank centres to hand out the SIMs.
The charity has not announced whether families are able to apply for the SIMs, or what the specific criteria to receive the connectivity package will be.
However, SIMs will be offered to those living in “digital poverty” – which could include elderly people who are confused by technology or families with kids who cannot afford internet access.
Ahmed Essam, Vodafone boss, said: “Over the last year, people across the UK have realised just how important connectivity is, and the major role it plays in many aspects of our lives – work, play, education, healthcare and keeping in touch with those closest to us.
“We are committing to helping one million more people get connected, and to developing the knowledge and confidence necessary in a society that increasingly demands a digital connection. ‘Buy One, Give One’ puts tackling digital poverty, and doing the right thing, at the heart of our business.”
It was announced at Vodafone’s Reinvent conference – where they also outlined a new more flexible plan called Evo plus plans to use only renewable energy by 2027.
Evo lets customers decide how much they want to pay upfront for a phone or watch – and how long they want to pay off the rest, from a year to 36 months. They can upgrade early if they want – plus trade in prices are guaranteed after being agreed via an app.
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