NHS partnership targets digital exclusion with free SIM cards

An NHS partnership is offering free mobile data to people in Torbay and South Devon in a bid to tackle digital exclusion.

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is working with the Good Things Foundation to provide pre-paid SIM cards to people on low incomes who struggle to get online.

The scheme is open to adults over the age of 18 who live in a low-income household and either have no internet access at home, limited access, or are unable to afford an existing mobile contract or top-ups.

Health and social care staff, as well as the people they care for, are also eligible to receive the SIM cards, which come pre-loaded with data.

The Good Things Foundation is the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity and works to “help everyone become digitally equal, able and safe, so that they can be happier, healthier and better off”.

The Trust says the initiative is designed to help people manage online health appointments, access essential services and stay connected with friends and family.

Helen Davies-Cox, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust’s Head of Personalised Care, said: “More and more people are using the internet and social media to manage their health appointments, do their shopping and keep in touch with friends and family.

“We have some of the most deprived communities in the country and want to do more to help people who are struggling financially by giving them free data to get online without having to worry about money.

"Our partnership with the Good Things Foundation is helping to directly addresses digital exclusion in our communities and providing a practical solution to help people to overcome some of the barriers they may face getting online.

"By providing free SIM cards, we’re empowering individuals to stay connected, access essential services, and improve their opportunities.”

People who think they may be eligible can apply by emailing tsdft.goodthings@nhs.net, calling 01803 656700, or by asking a clinician or carer involved in their care to apply on their behalf.