What is the National Databank?
GoodThings Foundation developed the UK National Databank. It helps thousands of people in communities across the UK and provides free mobile internet data, texts and calls for people who need it. Think of it like a ‘food bank’ but for internet connectivity data.
The Databank supports people cut off from basic daily activities. For example, contacting loved ones, job interviews and finding essential information online.
Virgin Media O2 support the Databank and Vodafone and Three have donated data.
Who’s eligible?
Someone receiving data through the National Databank must:
- Be 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/family can have access to data for up to six months.
How we can support you as part of the project
We’ve been successful in an application to the Databank and have been awarded mobile phone SIM cards to support customers and colleagues.
Our focus is on empowering individuals and families by eliminating the digital divide. We believe that connectivity is not just a service but a fundamental right, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone has equal access to the opportunities that the digital world offers.
The project offers:
- Access to 20GB free data, calls, and texts every 30 Days
- Extended support for up to 12 Months
- Empowering families with access to MiFi units
Hear from 21-year-old Moner, who has been supported by Hafod since 2023 as part of the Cardiff’s Young Persons Service at both our Ty Mawr Road and Princes Street Support schemes homes.
Moner fled the war in Sudan, coming over to the UK aged 14. He is now receiving support after moving into his first home in Riverside.
Moner is studying at Cardiff and the Vale College whilst looking for a job as he is so very keen to start giving back to the country which makes him feel safe. He spoke to us about how important the Databank has been to him and how it continues to help him
Read the disclaimers
This Internet Access Disclaimer (“Disclaimer”) is provided to inform and protect both the organisation and the individuals (“Customers”) who are granted access to the Internet through the Databank project. By accepting a SIM card through the Databank project and accessing the internet, customers acknowledge and agree to the terms and conditions outlined below in this disclaimer.
- No Liability Assumed
The organisation is gifting SIM cards with internet access as a convenience to customers, but it takes no responsibility or liability for the content, quality, accuracy, or reliability of information accessed through this network. The organisation shall not be held responsible for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from or related to the use of this internet access - Content Responsibility
Customers are solely responsible for the content they access, download, upload, or transmit over the internet using the gifted SIM card. This includes, but is not limited to, any violation of laws, regulations, or any infringement of intellectual property rights. Customers must use the Internet in a lawful and responsible manner.
This Disclaimer outlines the terms and conditions of gifting a MiFi unit (“the Device”) without assuming any responsibility for any issues or damages that may arise from its use. By accepting and using the Device, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the following:
- Gift Purpose: The MiFi unit is provided solely as a gift and without any warranties, guarantees, or assurances of its functionality or performance. The giver, hereinafter referred to as the “Donor,” does not intend to enter into any formal agreement or contract with the recipient, hereinafter referred to as the “Recipient.”
- Ownership and Use: Once the Device is gifted it will become the property of the Recipient without any financial exchange.
- No Responsibility for Maintenance or Repairs: The Donor is not responsible for any maintenance, repairs, or technical support related to the Device. The Recipient assumes all responsibilities for its upkeep, including but not limited to battery replacement, software updates, and troubleshooting.
- No Warranty or Guarantee: The Device is provided “as is” without any warranties, whether expressed or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. The Donor makes no guarantees regarding the Device’s performance, reliability, or compatibility with any specific network or devices.
- No Liability for Damages: The Donor shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages, including but not limited to damages to the Device, data loss, or any other losses arising from the use or inability to use the Device.
- Limitation of Liability: In no event shall the Donor be liable for any amount exceeding the actual purchase price of the Device, regardless of the circumstances leading to a claim or dispute.
- Assumption of Risks: The Recipient understands and accepts the risks associated with using the Device and agrees to hold the Donor harmless for any consequences, including financial losses, damages, or legal disputes that may arise.
- Compliance with Laws: The Recipient shall use the Device in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies governing telecommunications, data usage, and network security.
- Return or Transfer: The Recipient may not transfer, sell, or otherwise dispose of the Device without the Donor’s prior written consent.
By accepting the MiFi unit, the Recipient acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to the terms and conditions outlined in this Disclaimer. This Disclaimer shall be binding upon the Recipient and any subsequent users or possessors of the Device.
Social tariff broadband
Did you know that most internet providers offer a superfast social tariff? You could be eligible, and it could save you up to £200 a year on your broadband bill.
What are broadband social tariffs?
A social tariff is a discounted internet package offered by broadband providers and available for eligible low income customers and those in receipt of benefits. The tariffs are often cheaper than the standard rates offered by broadband providers.
