Following a successful three-month trial, Virgin Media O2 is expanding its National Databank across the UK to help tackle data poverty over the Christmas period.
Around 1.5 million UK households currently lack internet access, a digital divide that restricts opportunities year-round and becomes especially acute at Christmas.
Lutz Schüler, Chief Executive Officer at Virgin Media O2, said:
“With many millions still facing digital exclusion, now is the time to come together and close the gap on digital inequality, building a lasting legacy to help end data poverty for good. The pilot scheme demonstrated how important the National Databank is for those who need it most — and as it rolls out across the UK, we want to do even more.
Through our data pledge this Christmas, we’re asking customers to help us triple our original donation and connect the disconnected when they need it most.”
So far, 7.5 million gigabytes of O2 data have been donated through the scheme. Virgin Media O2 has also committed to gifting 10GB of O2 data to the National Databank for every plan purchased between 1 November and 31 January.
Virgin Media O2 has partnered with the Good Things Foundation on the National Databank initiative to help ensure that, whatever happens over the festive period, people won’t be left without connectivity.
Helen Milner OBE, Group Chief Executive of Good Things Foundation, commented:
“Having sufficient data in our increasingly digital society is not a luxury — it’s essential. With Christmas approaching and many people likely to spend the period alone, being connected to loved ones and being able to avoid extra costs can make a huge difference and provide companionship when it’s needed most.
The National Databank — effectively a ‘food bank for data’ — is already working to bridge the digital divide.
We’re proud to be expanding nationwide and glad that Virgin Media O2 is increasing its data pledge this Christmas. Together, we can address data poverty in the UK.”
For many, Christmas is about sharing moments with family and friends. Last year’s festive season was spent largely under lockdown, and it was digital connections that prevented isolation for many people.
Public health experts have warned that easing restrictions prematurely could risk a later, harsher lockdown as COVID-19 circulates again alongside typical winter viruses, placing further strain on the healthcare system.
Recent policy shifts in parts of Europe — including the Netherlands announcing tighter measures and Austria indicating potential lockdown steps — have highlighted the uncertainty facing the region this winter.
Maria, a data voucher recipient from Birmingham, said: “The donation has allowed me to order prescriptions and attend GP video calls and online physiotherapy sessions for my disabled mother, but most importantly it has given me an escape during a difficult time.”
The initiative aims to help more than 255,000 people across the UK. To join or support the National Databank, contact Good Things Foundation for details on how to participate.
(Photo by Rodion Kutsaev on Unsplash)
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