National Databank
If you are unable to afford an internet connection to meet your essential needs, you may be experiencing data poverty. Data poverty means that you can't do things like apply for a job online, bank online or access essential services, due to having no internet connectivity.
Bury Libraries have partnered with the Good Things Foundation, to offer free SIM cards to residents experiencing data poverty. The National Databank scheme is supported by Virgin Media O2, Vodafone and Three and offers mobile data, texts and talk minutes to residents in need.
To receive data through the National Databank you must be:
- a resident of Bury
- 18+ years old
- from a low-income household
And meet one of the following statements:
- Have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- Have no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- Cannot afford your existing monthly contract or top up
A person can have access to data for up to 12 months.
To request a SIM card, please call into your local library, taking one form of ID showing your name and address.
Digital Skills and Internet Safety courses
Want to improve your digital skills, save money and protect yourself online? Book onto one of our free six week Digital Skills and Internet Safety courses.
There are lots of other digital skills learning courses running across the borough. There are also lots of free online digital skills courses available to help build your confidence.
Digital Buddy sessions
Looking for help using a computer, phone, tablet, laptop or other digital device? Then make an appointment at one of our Digital Buddy sessions. Help is available from:
- Ramsbottom Library: Tuesdays from 10am to 12pm
- Radcliffe Library: Tuesdays from 2pm to 4pm
- Prestwich Library: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to 12pm and Thursdays from 12.30pm to 2.30pm
- Bury Library: Thursdays from 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Contact your local library to book an appointment.
Free Wi-Fi and computer access
Libraries continue to offer free Wi-Fi and computer access. If you need help getting onto the computers, or using the internet, please just ask a member of staff for help.