Community TechAid hope to raise £8,000 to buy 100 4G enabled smartphones:
"There is huge demand for smartphones for those on very low incomes, who are often housebound, living in temporary accommodation, hospitalised or living alone with complicated medical conditions. Many are using foodbanks, so being able to afford a phone with internet connectivity is impossible for them.
Without a phone and even basic internet access, it's impossible to connect with vital support services, make doctor’s appointments, and keep in touch with loved ones.
The last 12 months have pushed many members of our marginalised communities further into poverty. The effects of lockdown, increased living costs, imminent cuts to benefits and increased taxes continue to exacerbate existing inequalities. Digital exclusion presents a further barrier as access to the internet has become a necessity of everyday life.
One woman explained how unsafe and vulnerable she felt without a reliable phone in an apartment she cannot leave without assistance. Cut off from family and friends, her newly impaired mobility has added to her feeling of isolation and mental distress.
£80 can put a brand new smart phone in the hands of someone who needs this lifeline. £80 is what some of us would spend in our favourite coffee shop over a few months, or on 2 months of internet.
Vodafone have given 6 months of unlimted texts and calls plus 20GB of data for each phone.
A recent recipient told us, "Having a phone has changed my life, it enabled me to be reunited with my family in Portugal"
Every pound you can contribute will make a real difference!"
