Why is Virgin Media O2 Donating Smartphones this Winter?

Virgin Media O2 is helping people experiencing poverty to get online by donating hundreds of refurbished smartphones and free O2 mobile data through its Community Calling programme. 

In partnership with environmental charity Hubbub and distribution network The Multibank, the scheme delivers tech support directly to local communities.

The initiative forms part of Virgin Media O2’s commitment to donate up to 12,000 devices in 2025 to those unable to afford smartphones or data. 

Multibanks in Fife, Swansea and Tees Valley are now distributing the donated phones and data packages to people in need, as identified by local services and community organisations.

The Multibank, founded by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, functions as a community resource for people facing hardship. 

These hubs provide a range of essential items including clothing, furniture and toys. With the new partnership, connectivity is now a central offering.

Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, says: “We know how important it is to have access to the internet and that’s why Virgin Media O2 is proud to join forces with The Multibank to put phones and mobile data into the hands of people who really need it during the winter and beyond.

“It builds on Virgin Media O2’s industry-leading measures to drive digital inclusion across the country. 

“Whether it’s our National Databank that provides free O2 data, our Community Calling programme that rehomes smartphones or our broadband and mobile plans for people who receive benefits, we’re leading the way in helping people experiencing poverty stay connected.”

Community support through digital inclusion

The partnership gives local leaders and frontline services such as schools, health professionals and charities the tools to identify who needs help staying connected.

The scheme supports those who have recently lost their job, people who have left the care system, refugees and domestic abuse survivors.

With access to a working smartphone and a data connection, recipients are able to book medical appointments, apply for jobs or courses, access housing support and stay in contact with family.

Jakob, who receives support from the Cwtch Mawr Multibank in Swansea, says: “When I was in temporary housing, I didn’t have a phone or internet, which made things really tough. 

“Now I can use GPS to find my way around, learn more about the area and I feel a lot safer knowing I can reach out for help if I need it. I really appreciate the support – it’s made a big difference.”

In Tees Valley, Nia explains how the scheme has helped her reconnect: “My screen was broken on my mobile and I could not see anything. The phone provided to me has helped me to re-engage with the outside world once again and I don’t need to worry about having money to top this up.”

These personal stories show how access to devices and data directly impacts people’s safety, wellbeing and opportunity.

Sustainable tech and long-term targets

Virgin Media O2 collects and refurbishes devices from its existing supply chain, helping to reduce electronic waste. 

By reusing phones that would otherwise be discarded, the company supports both digital inclusion and environmental goals.

The initiative forms part of Virgin Media O2’s wider sustainability strategy, the Better Connections Plan. 

Through the strategy, the company aims to connect one million people affected by digital exclusion with free or low-cost services.

It includes the National Databank, launched with digital inclusion charity Good Things Foundation, which provides free O2 mobile data at participating UK stores. 

Virgin Media O2 also supports Community Calling, which has rehomed more than 27,000 smartphones since 2020 and the Tech Lending Community scheme, which distributes tablets to survivors of domestic abuse and people experiencing homelessness.

Social tariffs for broadband and mobile services are also available to those receiving government benefits, allowing more people on low incomes to access connectivity.

Welcoming Virgin Media O2 into the partnership, Gordon Brown says: “Having access to the internet and at a minimum, a handheld device, is now an essential service as indispensable as electricity, water and gas. Yet, 45% of households with children are below the Minimum Digital Living Standard and are struggling to get access to the connectivity they need to thrive.

“Virgin Media O2’s partnership with The Multibank to redistribute refurbished phones to people that need them most will boost digital wellbeing and social inclusion. 

“It’s heartwarming to think of the gift of connectivity that will be given to so many families this Christmas and beyond that will now support them in their everyday lives.

“And I thank Virgin Media O2 for joining our coalition of compassion where we can bring hope where it’s needed most.”

*Some names have been changed