\n\u201cWe know having access to a phone is a lifeline for people experiencing financial hardship. That\u2019s why Virgin Media O2 is proud to lead the way in providing 12,000 free phones this year to those who need them so they can get online and stay connected to loved ones.” <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
The programme works alongside the National Databank and social tariffs, which aim to support people who struggle with connectivity costs. The company states that mobile access can determine whether individuals can book medical appointments, search for work or maintain contact with support networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Community Partnerships And Environmental Links<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The distribution relies on a national network of charities and local groups already embedded in communities experiencing digital exclusion. Hubbub plays a central coordinating role, managing logistics and ensuring devices reach people most in need. The programme also aligns with wider efforts to reduce electronic waste by extending the working life of mobile phones that might otherwise be discarded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Emily Watson<\/strong>, strategic partnerships lead at Hubbub, said: <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cSince 2020, we\u2019ve been proud to work in partnership with Virgin Media O2 on Community Calling to help support those that are digitally excluded in the UK, whilst also tackling e-waste. Together, we\u2019ve now donated more than 30,000 phones, supporting people to stay connected to essential services, loved ones and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
This combined social and environmental focus reflects growing pressure on large companies to address multiple policy concerns at once. Access to devices is now closely tied to participation in everyday activities, from booking GP appointments to managing benefit claims and maintaining family contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Government Backing And Digital Policy Direction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The UK government has positioned digital access as a structural policy issue rather than a short-term welfare concern. Ministers argue that device ownership and connectivity influence economic participation and social mobility. Digital Inclusion and Telecoms Minister, Liz Lloyd, said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n “Getting access to a device can be a lifeline for those experiencing digital exclusion. That’s why tackling access to the online world is at the heart of our Digital Inclusion Action Plan. I welcome Virgin Media O2’s commitment to putting thousands of devices into the hands of people who need them most – this is exactly the kind of partnership that will help us break down barriers to opportunity.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Government endorsement reflects a wider policy shift towards collaboration with private firms to address inequality. By combining public objectives with corporate infrastructure, initiatives like this are being used to reach vulnerable groups more efficiently. As digital systems continue to replace offline services, the effectiveness of such partnerships is likely to remain under scrutiny from policymakers and social organisations alike.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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