The National Databank will be expanding into all 91 Virgin Money stores including Clydebank's.
Millions across the UK are set to benefit from the expansion as it aims to tackle the problem of digital exclusion, with 1 in 14 UK households still having no home internet access, according to the Good Things Foundation's latest data.
Last week, Marie McNair MSP attended a launch event at the Scottish Parliament, hosted by Virgin Money and the foundation, a digital inclusion charity.
The MSP for Clydebank said: "It’s reassuring to see that these organisations are on hand to help people in Clydebank to access the support they need to put an end to digital exclusion – not just in our area but across Scotland.”
The data from the foundation further revealed that more 2.5 million households struggle to afford broadband, and 10.2 million people lack basic digital skills.
The National Databank, founded by Good Things Foundation and Virgin Media O2, works like a food bank offering free mobile data, texts and calls to those in need.
People who lack regular internet access can now visit their nearest Virgin Money store and receive an O2 sim card loaded with 20GB of free data, enough for around 220 hours of internet browsing per month, renewable every month for six months.
Virgin Money and the foundation are also collaborating with Learn My Way, an online digital skills platform, to provide digital skills training, covering topics such as staying safe online and accessing essential online services.
James Peirson, general counsel and purpose officer at Virgin Money, said: "Digital exclusion is a real issue in the UK and one that needs prioritising. For many low or no-income households, paying for broadband is often seen as a luxury that they can’t afford, but in reality, it is an essential purchase – especially in this digital age.
"That’s why we are proud to support the vital work of Good Things Foundation by making the National Databank programme easier for people in need to access across the UK.
"We are also keen to encourage other organisations that are in a position to help to join the initiative. Whether that’s by becoming a National Databank themselves or donating their old smart devices that would otherwise go to waste.
"Each small gesture goes towards making a huge difference, and by working together we can try put an end to the digital divide.”
Helen Milner OBE, group chief executive officer of Good Things Foundation, said by the end of 2025, they aim to help one million people benefit from the digital world and support 5,000 Digital Inclusion Hubs across the UK.
For details of Virgin Money store locations, visit https://uk.virginmoney.com/store-finder/.
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