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For many people, access to the internet is no longer a luxury – it is an essential part of everyday life. From managing finances and accessing healthcare services to applying for jobs and staying in touch with family and friends, being connected has become increasingly important. Yet millions of people across the UK continue to face barriers to getting online because they cannot afford internet access or mobile data.
One initiative working to address this challenge is the National Databank, a UK-wide programme led by Good Things Foundation. Often described as a “foodbank for mobile data”, the scheme provides free mobile connectivity to people experiencing data poverty and digital exclusion.
The National Databank was launched in July 2021 by Good Things Foundation in partnership with Virgin Media O2. Originally established in response to the increased need for connectivity during the Covid-19 pandemic, the scheme has since grown into one of the UK’s largest digital inclusion initiatives.
The programme works by distributing free mobile SIM cards and data packages through a network of trusted community organisations known as Digital Inclusion Hubs. These organisations provide support to people who may be struggling to afford internet access or mobile data, helping them stay connected to essential services and opportunities.
Since its launch, the initiative has expanded significantly, with support from mobile network operators including Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three.
Today, there are more than 4,000 Digital Inclusion Hubs across the UK and more than 400,000 data packages have been distributed through the scheme.
The National Databank operates through local organisations that are members of Good Things Foundation’s National Digital Inclusion Network.
Mobile network providers donate SIM cards and free data packages, which are then distributed to participating community organisations across the country. These organisations activate the SIMs and provide them to eligible individuals in their communities.
Alongside the community hub network, all O2 stores now act as National Databank hubs, helping increase access to support for people who need it.
The programme continues to demonstrate the positive impact that connectivity can have on people’s lives.
According to Good Things Foundation:
These outcomes highlight the important role internet access plays in reducing isolation and helping people access essential services.
To be eligible for support through the National Databank, individuals must be aged 18 or over, be from a low-income household and meet one or more of the following criteria:
Individuals must access the support themselves through a participating National Databank hub and cannot collect SIM cards on behalf of someone else.
Alongside its support for the National Databank, Vodafone has operated its own digital inclusion initiative, charities.connected, since 2021.
The programme has provided charities across the UK with free mobile connectivity to support people experiencing digital exclusion. Vodafone reports that more than 1.7 million free SIM cards have been donated through the initiative since it launched.
Following a review of the programme, Vodafone has announced that applications for charities.connected SIM cards will close on 5th October 2026, after which the programme will come to an end.
SIM cards already distributed through the programme will continue to operate in line with the existing programme terms.
Vodafone has confirmed that it remains committed to tackling digital exclusion and will continue working with partners such as Good Things Foundation to help organisations access alternative connectivity support, including through the National Databank.
To support organisations during the transition, Vodafone and Good Things Foundation are also offering a series of online workshops in October 2026 and November 2026 covering:
The National Databank has grown from a pandemic-era response into a nationwide initiative helping hundreds of thousands of people stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
Whether you’re an individual struggling to afford mobile data or an organisation looking to support people experiencing digital exclusion, there are a range of resources, services and support available through Good Things Foundation and its network of Digital Inclusion Hubs.
