GiroTech supports digital inclusion through 'Community Calling'.
More than one million people across the UK have been supported to get online through the government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan. While this national progress is encouraging, digital exclusion is still a reality for many people in our community.
At Giroscope, we see first-hand how a lack of access to devices, data and digital skills can affect people’s ability to stay connected, access services, and take part in everyday life.
Through the Community Calling initiative, delivered by Hubbub in partnership with Virgin Media O2, GiroTech received 50 refurbished smartphones, each with up to 12 months of free data, calls and texts.
These devices have been distributed to people in Hull who would otherwise struggle to get online, helping to tackle both digital exclusion and data poverty. So far, nearly all of the phones have been given out, with just a small number remaining.
Recipients have been referred through a range of local pathways, including Giroscope tenants and volunteers, the Peel Project, Welcome House and other local voluntary and community organisations.
One recent example highlights the difference this support can make. Peter, an 82-year-old man, was referred to GiroTech’s digital skills sessions through social prescribing. After building his confidence using a smartphone, he was provided with a device and data through the scheme. He is now able to access online services and stay connected, and continues to attend sessions for ongoing support.
I started feeling I was being left behind. I did my apprenticeship as a sheet metal worker on the fish dock, and I was a carer for a while, and I missed what was going on with new technology. I felt like I knew as much as a five-year-old child. I needed to learn something. It was like being in a room that was getting smaller and smaller, and you were not part of it. So, I decided that I wanted to be a part of it. Doing this will give me more confidence and stop me from being left behind. I want to develop it and develop it, for as long as I can
Community Calling is part of a wider national effort to tackle digital exclusion. The scheme rehomes unused smartphones with people who need them, alongside free connectivity, helping to reduce both digital inequality and electronic waste.
While national programmes are making progress, local, community-based support remains essential. Many people need ongoing, face-to-face help in a trusted environment to build the confidence and skills needed to get online.
At Giroscope, this work is part of our wider commitment to supporting residents and tackling inequality in Hull. With demand still high, we are exploring opportunities to take part in future rounds of the Community Calling programme and continue helping people get connected.
Digital inclusion is about more than technology. It’s about ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in modern life.
Would you like to donate your old tech, phones or laptops/ computers to the project to help reduce digital exclusion? Email girotech@giroscope.org.uk
Interested in our training and volunteering? Email opportunities@giroscope.org.uk
