Free mobile sim card boost for hard-up Greenwich residents

Greenwich council has joined a national scheme to provide 7,200 free mobile sim cards to residents. 

The firm Better, which runs libraries across the borough on the council’s behalf, will be issuing sim cards to eligible residents through Greenwich Supports, the council’s cost of living campaign, and the Good Things Foundation, which promotes digital access for the disadvantaged.  

Greenwich councillor Ivis Williams said: “Homes across the UK have struggled to pay TV, internet and phone bills in the past year, with some having to cancel services to afford essentials such as food and fuel bills.   

“This is something that has been reflected locally, with residents telling us in our cost-of-living survey that they are cutting back on mobile and broadband payments, entertainment subscriptions and leisure activities due to rising costs.  

“This is a lifeline when our residents need it the most.”   

Paul Drumm, Better’s partnership manager for libraries, said: “Libraries are at the very heart of our communities, and we are acutely aware of the challenges many residents are facing.  

“This winter our libraries are also warm and welcoming spaces providing refuge for anyone who would like to spend time using our facilities or enjoying a hot drink. 

“The free sim card scheme will build on this and help us ensure that no-one in the local community becomes digitally excluded.”  

To be eligible for a sim card you must be over 18, from a low-income household and already be on befits. All 12 of the borough’s libraries will have a one-hour surgery each week for distribution.   

Pictured top (From left): Cllr Adel Kharieh, Cllr Lauren Dingsdale and council leader Cllr Anthony Okereke. (Picture: Greenwich council)