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Help with getting online

There are national organisations and charities that help people who find it hard to get online or afford the internet. Below are some examples.

Citizens Advice

If you are not sure what help is available, Citizens Advice can explain your options and help you that suits you.

The Good Things Foundation

The Good Things Foundation is charity that helps people get access to the internet. The charity has a service called The National Databank, this is like a food bank, but instead of food it gives free mobile data.

You may be able to get a free SIM card (a tiny card in your phone that allows you to make calls and access the internet) to use the internet.

This is for people who cannot afford internet access.

You may qualify if you:

• are 18 years or older
• are on a low income
• do not have internet at home, or only have limited access
• cannot afford a monthly phone or internet plan

You can find your nearest place offering this help by looking at the , or by asking a local support organisation.

Help for community organisations

Community groups and charities can also use the National Databank but they need to be members of the Good Things Foundation. They can join for free.

You can join for free by following the link:

This gives access to training, free data, and other support.

Vodafone charities.connected

Charities can apply for help from Vodafone to support people with their digital connectivity.

The charities may receive free SIM cards that come with internet data, calls, and texts. These SIMs can be used by the charity or given to people they support

Charities can apply here:

Help for families on low income

Some families may get extra free mobile data if they use certain phone companies, such as:

Schools or councils can sometimes help families apply for this support.

Cheaper home internet (broadband)

Some internet companies offer lower-cost broadband for people on certain benefits, these are called social tariffs.

They are cheaper than normal internet packages but always check how long the contract lasts.

Companies that offer these include: