RJAH joins National Databank to help patients stay connected

Patients who struggle to afford or access the internet can now receive additional support at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH), thanks to its involvement with the National Databank.

The new support is being launched during Get Online Week (19 to 25 October), as RJAH joins organisations across the country in raising awareness of digital inclusion and the importance of ensuring everyone has the opportunity, skills and confidence to get online.

As part of this work, RJAH has joined the National Databank, an initiative from Good Things Foundation which provides free mobile data to people who may struggle to afford or access the internet.

Described as a “foodbank but for mobile data”, the initiative works with local organisations to provide free mobile sim cards for people who can’t access the internet.

Through the scheme at RJAH, eligible patients may be able to receive a free mobile SIM and data package, helping them to stay connected and access online services.

To be eligible, patients must be aged 18 or over and from a low-income household. They must also have no or insufficient internet access at home or away from home, or be unable to afford their existing monthly mobile contract or top-up.

Sammy Davies, Quality Outcomes Manager and myrecovery Lead at RJAH, said: “Being able to get online is increasingly important for accessing information, managing healthcare and staying connected, but we know that cost and access can be significant barriers for some people.

“By joining the National Databank, we can offer practical support to eligible patients who may otherwise struggle to access online services. Launching this during Get Online Week is a great opportunity to raise awareness of the help available and make digital access more inclusive.”

Patients who are interested or think they may be eligible can speak to a member of RJAH staff or contact Sammy Davies, Quality Outcomes Manager and myrecovery Lead, on 01691 404436 for further information and support with signing up.