National Databank for free calls, texts and data on your mobile phone
The National Databank helps people get online if they're cut off from internet usage. It provides things like free mobile data, texts and calls. It's like food bank but for internet connectivity data.
Someone receiving data through the National Databank must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- and be from a low income household
And qualify in one or several of the following statements:
- Has no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- And/or has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- And/or cannot afford their existing monthly contract or top up
A person can have access to data for up to 12 months. Find out more on the Good Things Foundation website, including how to apply.
Broadband options
Broadband providers have deals available for people who are struggling with low income or receive certain benefits. These are known as social tariffs. Options for social tariffs include:
BT – Home Essentials
- £15 per month
- Unlimited broadband
- New or existing customers can apply
- Must be in receipt of Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit, Job Seekers Allowance, or Income Support
- BT Home Essentials website
Sky – Social Tariff
- £20 per month
- 18 month contract (no early termination fee)
- Must be in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit
- Only available to customers who already have Sky Broadband
- Sky Social Tariff website
Virgin Media – Essential Broadband
- £12.50 per month
- 30-day rolling contract
- Must be in receipt of Universal Credit
- Available to new or existing customers
- Apply on Virgin Media website
TalkTalk
- Free for six months
- For jobseekers on Universal Credit
- Must apply via the Jobcentre plus website
Now Broadband – Basics
Hyperoptic – Fair Fibre Plan
- £15 per month
- Monthly rolling contract
- Available to new or existing customers
- Available to those in receipt of Income Support, Pension Credit, Income-related Job Seekers Allowance, Housing Benefit, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Universal Credit, Care Leavers Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Apply on Hyperoptic website
Shell Energy Broadband
Community Fibre – Essential
