Greggs is teaming up with Virgin Media O2 to provide free mobile data to families in need. Operating through the Greggs Hardship Fund, the scheme will see the provision of free O2 SIM cards and voucher codes to families who need them, distributed via schools across the UK.

The Greggs Hardship Fund offers families a helping hand through the provision of supermarket and clothing vouchers, beds, white goods and other household items. 

Recipients will receive 15GB of mobile data each – which is more than three times the amount used in a month by the average mobile phone user in the UK, according to Ofcom. Trial locations for the scheme include schools in Scotland, the North East, South East and the Midlands.

Tracy Lynch, Greggs Foundation Manager, said: “We understand many people struggle to make ends meet and when unexpected costs arise, many can suddenly find themselves in very difficult circumstances. With the Hardship Fund, we are able to offer a helping hand to people who need it most. By joining the National Databank we are now able to provide further essential support to those facing hardship.”

Virgin Media O2’s support of the National Databank forms part of its new sustainability strategy, the Better Connections Plan – which includes ambitious commitments to use its purpose, people, and products to power a better, more connected, and greener future for its customers and communities nationwide.

If you are a community organisation or charity and are interested in finding out more about the National Databank, visit: www.goodthingsfoundation.org/databank.