A new Databank Hub is coming to Welwyn Garden City, which will offer free O2 mobile data, texts and calls to people who need it this Christmas.

Virgin Media O2 has added the hub to the O2 store in the Howard Centre, and will allow those who are eligible to receive a free O2 SIM with 25GB of monthly data for 12 months – which is enough for around 275 hours of internet browsing per month.

The scheme means people experiencing data poverty can access essential websites and manage everyday tasks, as well as keeping in touch with loved ones over the Christmas period.

Nicola Green, from Virgin Media O2, said: "By opening new National Databank Hubs in O2 stores across the East of England, we’re helping people affected by data poverty to stay in touch with their loved ones, access critical services, and be part of the digital world this Christmas and beyond.

"Virgin Media O2 is proud to be leading the way in tackling data and digital poverty across the region, where we’re building a fairer digital future for everyone.

"Whether it’s through the National Databank, providing free refurbished smartphones and devices via our Community Calling programme, or our broadband and mobile plans for people on low incomes, we’re committed to helping people in need to get online and stay connected."

Helen Milner OBE, group CEO at Good Things Foundation, added: "I’m delighted to see the National Databank grow even larger, with three O2 stores across the East of England now becoming National Databank Digital Inclusion Hubs.

"Virgin Media O2’s work to help reduce digital exclusion now allows the Databank to extend its impact to even more people and is a lifeline to those struggling to access the internet this Christmas.

"This means more people in need can access essential services and connect with loved ones. This work underpins Good Things Foundation’s ambition to help one million people benefit from the digital world by 2025. Together we can fix the digital divide for good."