Please share this for families who need it to get free data or wireless from the phone networks to support home-based schooling during these challenging times. Just contact the school if you need this and arrangements have not already been made.
Increasing data allowances on mobile devices to support disadvantaged children
This scheme temporarily increases data allowances for mobile phone users on certain networks. This is so that children and young people can access remote education if their face-to-face education is disrupted.
Who can get help
Schools, trusts and local authorities can request mobile data increases for children and young people who:
do not have fixed broadband at home
cannot afford additional data for their devices
are experiencing disruption to their face-to-face education
Children with access to a mobile phone on one of the following networks might be able to benefit:
Three
Smarty
Virgin Mobile
EE
Tesco Mobile
Sky Mobile
Other providers may join the scheme at a later stage.
When help is available
Schools, trusts and local authorities can request mobile data increases when schools report a closure or have pupils self-isolating.
They can also make requests for children who cannot attend school face-to-face because:
they’re clinically extremely vulnerable
restrictions prevent them from going to school
How to request a mobile data increase
For each request, we need to know:
the name of the account holder
the number of the mobile device
the mobile network of that device (for example Three)
There’s an online guide to help gather mobile information.
Schools, trusts and local authorities need to submit mobile information through our online service. Each provider will vary in how quickly they process requests.
Another option for increasing internet access
If increasing mobile data isn’t a suitable option for some children, schools can also request 4G wireless routers. Find out more about choosing help with internet access.
If you have questions
If you have any questions, email COVID.TECHNOLOGY@education.gov.uk using the subject line ‘Increasing data allowances’.
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