Virgin Media O2 has helped thousands of people affected by data poverty get online with free WiFi through its partnership with technology charity, Jangala.
Virgin Media O2 and Jangala have reached a milestone of providing more than 1,000 internet-enabling ‘Get Boxes’ to charities and local authorities across the UK.
The organisations are committed to rolling out 5,000 Get Boxes by April 2025.
A Get Box is a device which can be plugged in to provide an instant and secure WiFi network, powered by free O2 mobile data, ensuring that those in need can stay connected.
The O2 mobile data is provided by the National Databank, founded by Virgin Media O2 and charity, Good Things Foundation which provides free O2 data, texts and calls to those who need it.
It forms part of Virgin Media O2’s sustainability strategy, the Better Connections Plan, and the company’s goal to connect one million digitally excluded people through free connectivity and services.
Get Boxes are helping low-income families and people who would otherwise be disconnected get online, giving access to essential services, such as applying for work, booking medical appointments, or building their skills via online training courses, and is helping them stay connected to loved ones.
The devices, which can connect up to 20 people at time, have been distributed by local authorities, including Coventry City Council, and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, as well as charities such as digital inclusion charity, AbilityNet, and Roundabout, a youth housing charity providing shelter.
Coventry City Council has received hundreds of Get Boxes to help vulnerable residents living in temporary accommodation get online.
The council has partnered with organisations such as Valley House and the Salvation Army, and distributed the devices to places such as hostels and houses across the city.
Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “Our partnership with Jangala is providing a lifeline to thousands of people who otherwise would be disconnected, giving them access to the online world so they can do everything essential.”