A HOUSING association is to provide free mobile data to customers who cannot afford it due to financial pressures.
Clanmil Housing Association said that, similar to a food bank, it will supply internet connectivity data for those who need it.
With access to the internet essential for so many day-to-day activities and no let-up in the cost-of-living-crisis, it said that many people cannot afford to top up their phone or pay for Wi-Fi.
Low-income families are now four times more likely to be digitally excluded.
Clanmil has become the first housing association in Northern Ireland to supply free mobile data for customers who need it, thanks to its membership of the UK National Databank.
Eddie Smith from Clanmil said it hopes to help people who have had to "either reduce or completely stop using data on their phones or home devices because they just can’t afford it".
"With so many basic daily activities being done digitally now, not having access to Wi-Fi or data can make life really difficult for people," he said.
"Not only are people disadvantaged in terms of doing basic 'life admin', but they can also become socially isolated. We hope that this free data will make a real difference for people who need it.
"As well as providing free data, Clanmil can also help customers who don’t have a device by providing them with a smartphone through our Hardship Fund."
People who live in Clanmil homes who are in need will be able to avail of a SIM?card for up to 20GBs of data and unlimited calls and texts free for 12 months on either Three, 02 or Vodafone, subject to some criteria.
