Virgin Media O2 has delivered free internet access to over 1,000 residents across 30 Newcastle Housing Plus schemes through a strategic partnership with tech charity Jangala and Newcastle City Council.
The broadband initiative, aligned with the council’s ‘Get Online Newcastle’ programme, aims to bridge the digital divide by connecting residents in assisted housing to vital online services and digital learning resources.
Under this programme, Virgin Media O2 engineers installed Jangala GetBoxes—portable Wi-Fi devices powered by O2 SIMs—in communal spaces. These efforts were carried out as part of the company’s Take FIVE volunteering scheme, which allows employees five days of paid leave annually to contribute to community work.
The strategy focuses on digital inclusion as a pathway to social empowerment. By enabling internet access, the initiative helps residents stay in touch with loved ones, access healthcare and government services, apply for jobs, and participate in council-run digital skills training. It also supports local community groups and food banks operating out of these schemes.
Consumer benefits extend beyond free Wi-Fi. Residents were also informed about Virgin Media O2’s Essential Services, offering affordable broadband and mobile plans to people receiving government benefits. These plans are contract-flexible and include:
Essential Broadband: 15Mbps for £12.50/month
Essential Broadband Plus: 54Mbps for £20/month
O2 Essentials Mobile Plan: 10GB data with unlimited calls and texts for £10/month
By addressing digital access as a basic need, Virgin Media O2 and its partners are not only providing connectivity, but also promoting mental well-being, social interaction, and economic participation for vulnerable communities.
