Thousands to receive free smartphones in ‘transformational’ push to tackle digital exclusion

A new cross-sector initiative is set to get thousands online for free in response to growing concerns over the digital divide in Scotland.

The Scottish Government has partnered with the Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) network, Virgin Media O2 and environmental charity Hubbub to provide 1,200 smartphones to those struggling financially.     

Each device will have free O2 mobile data, texts and calls in a bid to ease access to essential online services including banking and medical appointments.

The project comes days after the government came under fire over its inaction in fixing the digital exclusion crisis.      

Last week, the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations called on the government to update its national strategy and provide further investment to bridge the gap, warning the public “faces significant disadvantage and increasing inequality” if it failed to do so.    

Business minister Richar Lochhead welcomed the new project, saying it will help create a “fairer, more inclusive society”.

He added: “By providing refurbished smartphones and free mobile data to those most in need, this initiative is enabling individuals to engage more fully with essential services, employment opportunities, and their communities.”   

The initiative was especially set up to help vulnerable groups, including refugees and asylum seekers, disabled people, prison-leavers, and those facing homelessness or fleeing domestic violence.     

Kyle Scott, CAS policy manager said: “Having access to a device opens so many opportunities for people, especially within the vulnerable groups identified.

“We know that almost one in ten households in Scotland do not have access to the internet. By providing access to a device, we’re one step closer to eradicating digital exclusion.”

The smartphones will be divided across 12 local authorities and given to those who can’t afford a device or data, allowing them to access a raft of online services such as social housing applications and job opportunities.     

Residents from Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, Scottish Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, Aberdeenshire, Highlands, Inverclyde, East Lothian and West Lothian are among those set to benefit from the project. 

Dana Haidan, chief sustainability officer at Virgin Media O2, said:  “Access to smartphones and data can transform lives, and that’s why we’re proud to work with Citizens Advice Scotland and the Scottish Government to provide these devices, helping local communities get online and thrive.

“With our circular economy strategy, we’re committed to reusing phones from our supply chain to give tech a second life, which is also connecting communities across Scotland, and preventing e-waste. It’s a win-win for people and the planet.”   

The project is part of Virgin Media O2’s largest ever device donation programme, which pledges to provide 12,000 pre-owned devices to charities across the UK during 2025.