Anyone struggling to afford a mobile phone contract can soon get a free SIM card with mobile data through Suffolk Libraries.
Suffolk Libraries have been awarded funding from Suffolk’s Digital Inclusion Fund to administer the National Databank across the county. The National Databank is a scheme that distributes free SIM Cards with preloaded data, calls and texts to people who are facing digital exclusion as they cannot afford the cost of a mobile phone contract. The Digital Inclusion Fund is provided by Suffolk County Council in partnership with Suffolk Community Foundation.
The Good Things Foundation provides the SIMs for free with the Suffolk funding covering the cost of managing the scheme. If you don’t have a working mobile phone number or mobile data it can make life very difficult to apply for jobs or benefits and people in this position are least able to afford a regular mobile phone contract.
The aim is to help at least 500 people via the project. A pilot databank scheme has been running via Stowmarket Library for the past few months and has already made a difference. An unhoused person who was able to get a SIM card said: “I feel like I’ve won something. It’s incredible to feel connected again.”
Thomas Hollyer, Suffolk Libraries Digital Inclusion Lead, said:
“Suffolk Libraries are very excited to be working with Suffolk County Council to launch a county-wide rollout of Good Things Foundation's National Databank scheme. With the current cost of living crisis, the free data provided by these SIM cards will provide a vital lifeline to those facing financial difficulty to be able to search and apply for work, access online services and stay in touch with their support networks without having to worry about how they can keep on top of their phone bill.”
Suffolk Libraries would also be interested in hearing from any charities or organisations who work with people who could benefit from the project. There is a launch event for the databank project for anyone interested in finding out more on Tuesday 10 September in Ipswich County Library’s Lecture Hall at 1.30PM.
Councillor Philip Faircloth-Mutton Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Communities and Equality said:
"We're thrilled to support this new initiative, which directly addresses digital exclusion in our communities. By providing free SIM cards, we're empowering individuals to stay connected, access essential services, and improve their opportunities. This scheme represents a crucial step towards ensuring that everyone in Suffolk has the digital tools they need to thrive."
How does it work?
To get a referral you will need to speak to a member of staff at a library or partner organisation (with exceptions – you can contact databank@suffolklibraries.co.uk to find out more). They will then complete a short form with you. SIM cards should then be ready to collect from your chosen library the following week.
To be eligible you need to meet the following criteria:
You will also need a mobile device unlocked to any network (or unlocked to Vodafone, 3 or O2). There are three options available:
For more information about the scheme, visit our website.
