We’re pleased to announce a new initiative that provides free mobile phones for GSA customers experiencing data poverty.
Digital Inclusion is one of our four priority community investment themes, with a focus on tackling data poverty - the inability to afford sufficient and secure mobile or broadband data for essential needs. In the modern world, access to the internet and digital services has become an essential, not a luxury.
Many customers tell us they can’t afford a phone handset, Wi-Fi or data package and struggle to access essential online services such as Universal Credit, job applications and booking GP appointments.
To tackle this issue, we’ve secured £3,800 in Digital Inclusion Funding to buy mobile phone handsets and tariffs. We’ve also partnered with the Good Things Foundation, who are supplying free of charge sim card packages for up to 12 months.
The funding will enable us to help approximately 65 GSA customers. They must be over 18 and experiencing data poverty to qualify, regardless of whether they are receiving Universal Credit or not. Customers at particular risk of digital inclusion include those on low incomes, older people and ex-offenders.
The initiative will work on a referral basis, and colleagues who work directly with our customers and are aware of anyone struggling with data poverty can refer them.
Teresa Jones, our Locality Manager, said: “Our Tenancy Skills team are finding that with the migration from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, the customers they are supporting require smartphones to manage their online claims. Additionally, we’re coming across customers who have no access to mobile phones or the means to engage with GSA and other organisations.
“This initiative will not only enable customers to have a smartphone and internet access, but to potentially achieve broader financial inclusion outcomes. It will also provide an opportunity for us to check our customers are claiming any benefits they’re entitled to."
The Digital Inclusion Funding is possible thanks to our annual community donation from Efficiency East Midlands Ltd (EEM), based on our 2024 spend with them. The community donation aims to support social value projects that benefit our communities.
Molly Grice, Marketing Officer at EEM, said: “This initiative will make a real difference to customers who are struggling to stay connected in an increasingly digital world. Access to the internet is no longer a luxury — it’s essential for everyday life.
“We’re always really pleased to see our Community Donations utilised in such a beneficial way and this project is a great example of how our Community Donation scheme can deliver real social value for our members and their communities.”