Virgin Media O2 has set a target of donating 12,000 to people in need during 2026.

Domestic abuse survivors and people impacted by homelessness and poverty are among groups the firm will target.

A key focus is to ensure more people can access online services and support, including booking GP appointments, finding work and accommodation and staying in touch with loved ones.

The phones will be distributed via charity partners and community groups via its Community Calling programme, which it runs with environmental charity Hubbub.

The pledge for 2026 mirrors a promise made last year, where it successfully donated 12,000 devices to people in need.

“We know having access to a phone is a lifeline for people experiencing financial hardship,” said Virgin Media O2’s chief communications and corporate affairs officer Nicola Green.

She added that the initiative builds on its work to tackle digital exclusion, which includes social tariffs for people who receive government support payments.”

The pledge has been welcomed by digital inclusion and telecoms minister Liz Lloyd.

She said that it will put “thousands of devices into the hands of people who need them most - this is exactly the kind of partnership that will help us break down barriers to opportunity”.

Hubbub strategic partnerships lead Emily Watson said that since it launched its partnership with Virgin Media O2 six years ago more than 30,000 phones have been donated to help people "stay connected to essential services, loved ones and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach”.

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