If you're struggling to pay for internet connection and data sim cards, free independent benefits and money advice and support is available for all residents, covering benefits, debts and employment.
A range of support with for paying for your internet and getting a data sim card is also available; see information about:
- IT Reuse
- Internet access for disadvantaged children
- Internet tariffs for people on low income
- The National Databank Inclusion Network
- Digital Friendly York
IT Reuse
IT Reuse take donations of unused IT equipment and provide it to people in need.
Individuals can find help from IT Reuse through their support workers who will need to register with the scheme. Once registered they can apply for laptops, tablets, desktops, mobile phones and internet connection for the people they are supporting.
In addition, community groups can receive help from IT Reuse as accessing IT equipment can be difficult for different groups. IT Reuse offer a limited number of devices to community organisations in need.
Find out more about IT Reuse and how to get support on their website.
Internet access for disadvantaged children
Disadvantaged families may be able to benefit from free increases to their mobile data if they’re a customer of:
Schools, trusts and local authorities can request free mobile data increases for families if they’re experiencing disruption to face-to-face education.
Internet tariffs for people on low income
Some broadband providers, such as BT, KCOM and Virgin Media, offer cheaper tariffs to help customers on low incomes.
Citizens Advice provides information on choosing a mobile phone calls and data package.
The National Databank Inclusion Network
The National Digital Inclusion Network is a network of organisations helping people use or access the internet locally.
Virgin Media, O2, Vodafone and Three regularly donate mobile data SIM cards. The National Digital Inclusion Network then distribute the SIM cards to these community hubs across the UK, who activate and gift the free mobile data to people experiencing data poverty or living on a low income in their community.
Data is available through IT reuse, the Digital Friendly York website, Explore libraries, York Learning, Keeping Digital, O2, Jobcentre and other organisations in the city. Find local digital inclusion support. In addition, find out more on the The National Databank Inclusion Network website.
Digital Friendly York
Digital Friendly York is a partnership of organisations which aims to give residents in York the choice and opportunity to get online and know where to access help when they need it.
Local support is available to access data and internet connection. They also provide a range of support to get online and use digital equipment and services. From learning the basics and building confidence online to coding and games.
There are digital cafés across the city of York, providing a space for York residents to get dedicated support in getting online.
Find out more on the Digital Friendly York website.