National Databank

Lancashire libraries are helping tackle digital poverty as part of the National Databank scheme. 

The National Databank provides free SIM cards from O2, Vodafone and Three. 

The SIM cards have mobile data, minutes and text. Three SIM cards are data only. This scheme works with Good Things Foundation’s network of local community partners including our libraries. 

You can qualify for data from your local library if you are over 18, are from a low-income household, and:

• have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
• have no or insufficient access to the internet when away from home
• cannot afford your existing monthly contract or top up

To benefit from the scheme, a recipient's device must be capable of accepting a SIM and of receiving texts. The device must also either be unlocked or, if locked, be locked to O2 or Vodafone. Three SIM cards are data only.

A maximum of 12-months data, calls and texts are allowed. No further applications can be accepted after 12 months.

Ask about the scheme at your local library.

You will need to make an appointment at the library to collect the SIM card. Uncollected SIM cards will be reallocated after 4 weeks. 

Customers may also be interested in broadband. Find out more about social broadband tariffs.