An evaluation report exploring the critical need for internet access for people living in temporary accommodation has been published today.
It follows a pilot project delivered by the technology charity Jangala in partnership with Virgin Media O2, Coventry City Council’s #CovConnects initiative, and Good Things Foundation, which supported people living in temporary homes in Coventry with internet connectivity.
The research highlights the impact that being online can have on emotional and mental wellbeing, personal empowerment, and access to essential services. For people living in temporary accommodation, connectivity can be poor quality or non-existent, despite a critical need to be online. Residents are penalised if they do not bid weekly for permanent housing but are often on low incomes and cannot install internet in their temporary homes.
At the heart of the research is the role of Jangala’s Get Box, a portable internet connectivity device designed to provide reliable internet access to those who need it most. By swiftly enabling individuals in temporary accommodation to get online, Get Box plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide. It opens doors to essential services, learning opportunities, and vital social support networks, offering a lifeline to people facing unstable living conditions and a range of personal challenges. These include surviving domestic abuse, recent arrival to the UK and mental illness.
Jackie* who is a survivor of domestic abuse explains:
“If I didn't have music I wouldn't go to sleep at night. It's made me feel, like, a little bit more comfortable. It calms me down as well. The Get Box has done a lot for me.”
The initiative forms part of a broader programme funded by Virgin Media O2, which aims to distribute 5,000 Get Boxes across the UK. The programme has deployed more than 2,000 devices already to partners. Get Boxes are having a real and measurable impact in communities struggling with digital exclusion by offering a vital lifeline to connectivity when it is needed.
The findings of the research emphasise the importance of increased data allowances in driving social impact and addresses the immediate connectivity needs of individuals. It also lays the groundwork for long-term positive change by demonstrating the far-reaching benefits of easy-to-use, scalable solutions in digital inclusion.
Cllr Richard Brown, Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Resources at Coventry City Council said: “This project has been a real success and has made a huge difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents. I look forward to building on success mentioned in the report so we can continue to tackle the digital divide in Coventry and ensure that all our residents, regardless of background and circumstance, can get online and access the digital world.”
Rich Thanki, Managing Director at Jangala said: “This research vividly highlights the critical role that internet access plays in so many aspects of welfare. We’re thrilled that our Get Box technology, with incredible support from VMO2 and Coventry Council, has been able to positively impact the lives of such a diverse range of digitally-excluded people.”
Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2 said: “We’re proud that Virgin Media O2’s partnership with Jangala is providing a lifeline to people in need, helping them to get online and access essential online services from applying for accommodation to booking medical appointments or building their skills via online training course, and is helping them to stay in touch with loved ones.”
Helen Milner OBE, Group CEO, Good Things Foundation, said "Access to the internet is life-changing, providing a crucial link to essential services, education, and employment. Our partnership with Jangala, Virgin Media O2, and Coventry Council is helping ensure people in temporary accommodation are not left behind in the digital world. By providing reliable connectivity, we are giving individuals and families the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Together we can help fix the digital divide."
For more information, access the full research evaluation report here: https://www.janga.la/digital-lifelines
*names have been changed to protect anonymity