Community Calling Partnership
In May 2026, Bury Council received 100 smartphones through Community Calling, a partnership between Hubbub and Virgin Media O2 that refurbishes and redistributes unwanted devices to people experiencing digital exclusion. Working with local partners including Bury Libraries, HMR Circle, Yesoid, Bury Adult Learning and Bury Homeless Service, the Bury Works: Digital for All programme distributed the phones to residents who would benefit most. The devices have helped people access essential services, improve their health and wellbeing, stay connected with friends and family, develop digital skills, and participate more fully in community life.
Improving access to health, care and support
James (not his real name) had been relying on an outdated Android phone with a broken screen that was slow, unreliable and no longer receiving software updates. At the same time, he was coping with the challenges of supporting his mother, who has dementia.
Receiving a refurbished smartphone enabled James to manage key aspects of his daily life more independently. He now uses the device to arrange counselling sessions, access NHS appointments, receive letters and notifications, and stay in regular contact with family and support services. The phone also connects directly to his hearing aids, significantly improving accessibility and communication.
As well as providing practical support, the device has increased James's confidence. He said he has "enjoyed learning how to use the new device and developing new digital skills", helping him become more independent and connected.
Supporting a resident with complex needs
A resident referred by Bury Council's Homelessness Team had recently moved to Bury and was living with severe autism and other complex needs. Difficulties managing appointments and daily routines were beginning to affect his wellbeing.
The smartphone has enabled him to engage more consistently with support services and maintain contact with staff. He uses the device to access autism-friendly apps recommended by his psychologist, communicate with peers, listen to podcasts, and set reminders and alarms to help manage everyday tasks safely.
Being able to stay connected has strengthened his engagement with services and supported his wellbeing, helping him access the support he needs more effectively.
Supporting carers and reducing isolation
An 86-year-old resident referred by HMR Circle was the primary carer for his wife, who has a physical disability. His existing iPhone was becoming increasingly unreliable, often requiring recharging after only a few hours.
Receiving a replacement iPhone gave him a dependable way to stay in contact with family, healthcare professionals and emergency services if needed. Familiarity with the device was also important, as he found Android devices difficult to navigate.
The phone has improved both practical safety and peace of mind. Reflecting on the difference it has made, he said:
"My old phone needed charging again after just a few hours, so having a reliable one that lasts the whole day will make a huge difference."
Beyond essential communication, the phone helps him stay connected socially through social media, news websites and online entertainment, reducing the risk of isolation and supporting his wellbeing as a full-time carer.
Enabling community participation
A retired construction worker and plumber referred through Bury Adult Learning had recently lost his laptop following a theft and access to a phone.
As an active member of a local allotment group, the smartphone has allowed him to remain involved in community activities. He used Facebook to join different groups about reuse and the growing of plants and vegetables; use YouTube to check on how best to plant/ grow/feed plants etc; and research seeds that are bee and nature friendly. The device has also enabled him to manage housing, health and shopping tasks online, maintain contact with family and access important services. His referrer noted that without digital access "his world would have shrunk and social interaction reduced."
Strengthening community organisations
The impact of the programme has extended beyond individual residents. Yesoid Mentoring received ten smartphones to support the delivery of its youth mentoring activities.
The devices have improved safeguarding by enabling staff to communicate with mentors and monitor mentoring sessions more effectively. They also support outcome measurement through surveys that track attendance and wellbeing before and after sessions.
For many mentors, the phones have benefits beyond their volunteering role. One mentor, who did not previously own a smartphone, now uses the device for online banking, NHS services and day-to-day communication. Following the birth of his child, the phone also enabled him and his wife to access hospital information and records digitally.
This demonstrates how access to a smartphone can create benefits that extend into family life, employment, volunteering and community participation.
Overall impact
The Community Calling phones have helped residents across Bury access essential services, improve their wellbeing, develop digital skills and maintain social connections. They have also strengthened local organisations by improving safeguarding, supporting service delivery and removing barriers to participation. These stories demonstrate that access to a suitable digital device is not simply about technology; it is about enabling people to live more independently, stay connected and participate fully in their communities.