Give the Gift of Getting Online

In Salford, the digital lifestyle is becoming increasingly common. As more services move online, many people in our community are being left behind, unable to access essential support. We are committed to ensuring that

No One is Left Behind Offline.

We’re excited to announce that Community Calling - Hubbub, in partnership with Virgin Media O2 and the National Databank, has generously donated refurbished smartphones and SIM cards for digitally excluded residents in Salford. Now, we need YOUR help to rehome these smartphones.

This Christmas, let’s join forces to help those in need stay connected with loved ones. Together, we can make a real difference by providing digital access to those who need it most.

Each smartphone comes with up to 12 months of free data, minutes, and texts - helping to bridge the digital divide and reduce e-waste.

Let’s act now and support our community!

How it works

Step 1 - Application form: Below we have provided a link to an online application form, which will be open throughout December. Please complete one form for each digitally excluded Salford resident.

Note: If your organisation does not appear in the dropdown options, please select Other and when inputting your last name please also add the name of your organisation.

Step 2 - Form receipt: The application form will be received by the Digital Inclusion team who will allocate the device for collection.

Step 3 - Device Collection: On the form, please specify the gateway/hub where the applicant will collect the device. The applicant should go to the front desk of the chosen gateway/hub, provide their name and application number, and bring a form of ID. They will be asked to sign a device receipt form, and the O2 SIM card will be activated by the gateway staff.

Please use the link for information on the opening hours of the gateways.

Let's work together to give the gift of getting online this Christmas.

Eligibility Applies

Please note that we have set eligibility for all applicants:

• Be over 18 years old, with photo ID
• Be a Salford resident, with proof of address, dated within the last two months.
• Have no access to a suitable smartphone
  • Be in receipt of one of the following income based benefits (you will be asked to provide a copy as proof):
  • Income Support: This benefit is no longer open to new claims. Existing claimants can continue to receive it, but new applicants should apply for Universal Credit instead.
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA): This is available for those who are unemployed and actively seeking work.
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA): Available for those who have a disability or health condition that affects how much they can work.
  • The Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit: This is for people over State Pension age on a low income.
  • Universal Credit (not working): Available for those who are out of work or on a low income.
  • Universal Credit (working): Available for those earning £616.67 or less per month.
  • Child Tax Credit: Available for those with children, provided they are not also receiving Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190.
  • If you get support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.