One of our key digital inclusion priorities is better infrastructure and access – ensuring everyone has the ability to connect to the internet and Go Online, plus has access to good broadband connectivity, access to digital devices and free SIM cards for a smart phone.
A databank is like a foodbank, but instead of supplying food it supplies free SIM cards, helping vulnerable people get connected to the internet. Use the Good Things Foundation website to find out how to register your organisation as a Databank or find your nearest Databank.
Learn how to connect to Wi-Fi by watching this short video created by Phoenix Software. Plus, check out Lloyds Bank Academy’s guidance on using public Wi-Fi safely.
Explore Sunderland’s Digital Inclusion Directory, which explains support available at Sunderland Community Digital Health Hubs.
Ofcom has produced a mobile coverage checker, designed to help people find out about the availability of mobile services in a particular area. See if where you live, study or work has good coverage from your provider. This is useful if you are a lone worker and you want to check mobile coverage in an area before you visit, or if you are choosing a mobile phone provider you can check that where you live receives a signal. Additionally, Ofcom has information on accredited price comparison sites, which are put through a thorough audit to ensure that the information supplied is accessible, accurate, transparent comprehensive and up to date.
Check out Think Broadband’s Postcode Checker to see broadband availability in different areas.
Find out about Sunderland’s resident fibre offering, or see below examples of Broadband Providers:
Interested in recycling unwanted digital devices? Find out avenues to recycle or donate your devices using the links below.
Supporting voluntary and community groups, Charity Digital have access to quality, cost-effective technology, and provide support to the charity sector, with many services free of charge. The support offered includes written content, podcasts, webinars, and much more. Find out more here.
Use Recycle Now’s search tool to find where you can hand in a variety of goods to be recycled.
Find out where you can access free Wi-Fi hotspots across Sunderland.
If you are claiming eligible benefits, you might be entitled to receive a reduced tariff on broadband. This webpage provides a list of broadband providers, along with information on the rate, contact details and a link directly to the Providers website for further information.
Explore Sunderland City Council’s financial wellbeing support hub.
Explore Sunderland’s Digital Inclusion Directory, which explains support available at Sunderland Community Digital Health Hubs.
Produced November 2024. Sunderland Smart City resources may include links to external organisations and websites. We bear no responsibility for the actions, content, or services provided by these organisations, and the inclusion of these links does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of their products or services.