The York Databank
Residents can be referred to the databank by visiting a Digital Cafe and speaking to one of our volunteers. All applications are confidential and will then be passed onto one of our Community Outreach Coordinators.
The Keeping Digital Foundation are delighted to be part of the National Databank, meaning for at least the next year, we can provide free mobile data, texts and calls to people in need, in partnership with Good Things Foundation, Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three.
The easiest way to think of the databank is like a 'food bank' but for internet connectivity data.
The people being supported by the UK National Databank are cut off from the basic daily activities most people in our country take for granted. They are cut off from contacting loved ones, from job interviews, from finding essential health or other information online, and cut off from digitised public services. We believe that no-one should be left behind. The UK National Databank brings free mobile internet data connectivity to people who can’t afford it and who are often also experiencing multiple inequalities in today’s society.
Am I eligible to recieve data through the programme?
Our volunteers at our Digital Cafes across the city of York are able to apply on behalf of a resident to benefit from the programme. In order to make sure the programme supports those most at need, someone receiving data through the 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
Has no or insufficient access to the internet when away from home
Cannot afford their existing monthly contract or top up
A person can then recieve support from the databank for up to 12 months.
The Keeping Digital Foundation only recieve a set amount of SIM cards a month and therefore all applications are reviewed by Community Outreach Coordinators.
To apply to recieve support from the Databank, you must attend a Digital Cafe service and speak to one of our volunteers.
A festive update regarding O2 Data Vouchers
From 9th November 2023 and up until 31st January 2024, all O2 Data Vouchers issued will come with 50GB of data instead of the normal 25GB.
This is a temporary increase in the offer to help support people during the festive period, which can be a difficult time for many.
If you have any questions regarding this, please speak to a volunteer at your nearest Digital Cafe, email support@keepingdigital.org.uk, or call our team on 01904 900127.
Get face-to-face support at a Digital Cafe
Our Digital Cafes are popping up across the city of York, providing a space for York residents to get dedicated support in getting online.
Hosted in a 2 hour session, residents can come down for a warm drink and to ask any questions (and bring along any devices).
Our volunteers are here to help you get online, from setting up a smart phone to signing up to the NHS app or York Council website.
In partnership with
