Residents in Wellingborough who struggle to access the internet can now receive free SIM cards from the local library as part of a new effort to tackle digital exclusion. North Northamptonshire Council launched the service on 13 May 2026 at Wellingborough Library, located on Pebble Lane, along with four other library branches across the region.
The initiative is part of the Good Things Foundation‘s National Databank programme, which provides mobile data, calls, and texts to those in need. The SIM cards are donated by major mobile network operators Vodafone, Virgin Media O2, and Three. Depending on the package provided, the cards can offer connectivity ranging from one month to up to a year, or a one-off data allowance.
Councillor Gregory Wilcox, Executive Member for Communities, said that internet access has become a necessity for daily life rather than a luxury. He noted that the programme helps residents who might otherwise struggle to access essential services, look for work, or stay connected with family and friends.
The service is available to adults aged 18 and over who live in low-income households and lack reliable internet access at home. Library staff are on hand to assist with the sign-up process, and residents are not required to provide formal evidence of their situation to participate. In addition to Wellingborough, the scheme is available at libraries in Irthlingborough, Kettering, Oundle, and Rushden.
Nationally, the National Databank operates through more than 4,000 community hubs, having distributed over 400,000 data packages to date. Research indicates that nearly one-in-four UK adults consider themselves digitally excluded, a figure that increases to 44% among those with household incomes under £10,000.
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