CETMA has confirmed that it will carry its partnership with the Good Things Foundation into 2026, continuing its long‑standing involvement in the National Databank initiative.
The National Databank was set up in July 2021 to help tackle data poverty and to support people facing isolation during the Covid‑19 pandemic. It remains active across the UK, with many centres offering free SIM cards to individuals who need internet access. Despite the growing importance of being online, research from 2023 showed that 2 million households still had no home internet, and 2.4 million people were unable to afford a mobile phone contract.
Through the Databank, eligible individuals can receive SIM cards from O2, Vodafone or Three, depending on availability. These provide up to a year of free data, along with varying amounts of calls and texts.
Anyone wishing to collect a free SIM card can visit CETMA’s offices in Llanelli, Kidwelly or Swansea. After completing a short registration process, visitors can take a SIM card away the same day. The process is quick and typically takes no more than five minutes.
CETMA has been involved with the National Databank since its original pilot phase and was the only Welsh organisation included at that time. Since then, CETMA has distributed hundreds of SIM cards, helping people access essential online services such as job searching and online shopping.
For more information or to enquire about receiving a SIM card, you can contact CETMA via:
Phone: 01554 556996
Email: llanelli, swansea or kidwelly @cetma.org.uk
In person: Visit any CETMA office (opening hours available at https://cetma.org.uk/)
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