Business & Technology
Virgin Media O2 helps one million get online in UK
Virgin Media O2 says it has helped one million digitally excluded people get online, meeting a five-year target under its Better Connections Plan.
The telecoms group says it reached the milestone through a mix of free mobile data, donated devices and wider network access in rural areas. It also says 8.5 million people have received digital skills training and online safety support, exceeding its original target of six million.
Access to digital services has become increasingly important for routine tasks such as booking medical appointments, applying for jobs and taking part in remote interviews. Virgin Media O2 says its programmes have supported families, people in rural areas, people experiencing homelessness and survivors of domestic abuse.
Support measures
Among the schemes highlighted is the National Databank, run with Good Things Foundation, which offers free O2 mobile data through O2 stores across the UK. More than 500,000 people have been connected through the initiative, according to Virgin Media O2.
The operator also pointed to its role in the Shared Rural Network, which is intended to expand 4G coverage in harder-to-reach parts of the country. It says broader rural connectivity has been part of its effort to reduce digital exclusion.
Device access has also been a key part of the work. Virgin Media O2 says its Community Calling programme with Hubbub has rehomed more than 32,000 devices, while its Tech Lending Community scheme has loaned tablets to people experiencing homelessness and survivors of domestic abuse.
The business says it has also donated hundreds of devices and free mobile data to The Multibank, which distributes essential non-food items through sites in Fife, Swansea and Tees Valley. In addition, it has pledged to donate 12,000 refurbished phones during 2026, matching its 2025 commitment.
Skills training
The work has also been backed by digital skills training designed to help people use online services safely. This includes a partnership with Internet Matters to help parents keep children safe online, and funding for Good Things Foundation’s Learn My Way platform.
Virgin Media O2 also highlighted its broadband and mobile social tariffs for people receiving government support payments. It says partnerships with UK Youth, nexfibre and Jangala have also extended broadband and WiFi access to disadvantaged groups and community organisations.
Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “Over the last five years, Virgin Media O2 has led the way in delivering innovative programmes, partnerships and targeted services that help people experiencing hardship get online. We know having access to both the internet and digital skills is a game-changer. It means people experiencing exclusion can access essential services and unlock opportunities that change their lives.”
“While we’re proud to have reached our ambitious targets, we know there’s more to do and we remain committed to tackling digital exclusion and connecting even more communities in need across the UK.”
Good Things Foundation, which has worked with Virgin Media O2 on the National Databank and digital skills programmes, says the partnership has widened access to data, devices and training.
Its representative, Sellick, said: “This is an incredible milestone and we are immensely proud to be working alongside Virgin Media O2 to tackle digital exclusion. Through our partnership, we are not just connecting people; we are making a real change and helping to fix the digital divide, ensuring hundreds of thousands of people across the UK have the free data, devices and skills they need to transform their lives by getting online.”
Virgin Media O2 also linked the milestone to the Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which is intended to improve access and skills for people who remain excluded from digital services.
Minister for the Digital Economy Liz Lloyd said the effort showed the role industry can play alongside government in widening access. “This is a powerful example of industry helping to deliver real, positive change for people – opening up new chances in life and employment, and unlocking economic growth opportunities within communities across the country.”
“Through the Government’s Digital Inclusion Action Plan and Virgin Media O2’s Better Connections Plan, we’re showing what’s possible when industry and government work in lockstep to close the digital divide. When we pull in the same direction, we can change more lives and ensure everyone has the confidence and connection they need to thrive.”
The Original Factory Shop which sells discounted homewares, furniture, electrical goods and toys, shut its store in Carterton yesterday (Saturday, March 28).
On the business’ Facebook page, last-minute discounts were being offered with clothing down to £2 an item.
READ MORE: Store closure fears as UK discount brand in administration
On Thursday, March 26, a spokesperson for the store said: “Everything in store is now up to 85 per cent off as we prepare to close our doors this weekend.
“This is your last chance to grab a bargain – once it’s gone, it’s gone.”
Following that announcement, prices were subsequently lowered and lowered.
Other branches around the UK also shut yesterday including in Cromer, Gorleston and Bungay in Norfolk and Suffolk with major sales also being implemented at other locations.
This comes after the business fell into administration in January, with further closures also expected imminently in Snettisham, according to The Sun, and around the country.
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Administrators said The Original Factory Shop’s troubles have been driven by challenging trading conditions, linked to high-cost inflation, fragile consumer confidence and rising labour costs caused by government policies.
Problems were then exacerbated by issues linked to its third-party warehouse and logistics operator, weakening sales further.
It only has one store in Oxfordshire, its Carterton shop, although Claire’s – which is also owned by investment firm Modella Capital and is in administration – has one in the Oxford Westgate shopping centre.
The fashion retailer this month closed down its store in the Oxford city centre shopping centre having opened in October 2017 as part of the £440m revamp.
It was one of the original retailers as part of the shopping centre’s new phase of life, along with John Lewis, Primark and Next.
A spokeswoman from Hugo Boss said: “Hugo Boss optimises its global store portfolio as part of its long-term strategy, which also affects the Boss Oxford Westgate Centre store.
“Hugo Boss will maintain a strong presence in the UK, and we will also continue to serve our customers via our online flagship store at hugoboss.com.”
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The company did not say whether any redundancies had been made from closing the store.
The spokeswoman said: “Wherever possible, we reallocate employees through transfers or other internal opportunities.”
There are indeed other branches not too far, including at Bicester Village, Swindon and Reading.
A spokeswoman for the Westgate said: “We remain committed to making Westgate Oxford a vibrant and varied retail destination for our guests, welcoming exciting new arrivals such as Sephora, The Beefy Boys, and the opening of Lego later this spring, as well as recently upsized stores for Oliver Bonas, Goldsmiths, and Superdrug.
“We look forward to sharing more details about new brands joining the centre soon.”
Henley Business Buzz hosted its first event at Henley Rugby Club, drawing more than 30 businesses and decision-makers from the local area.
The group is part of the wider Business Buzz network, offering informal, no-membership, pay-as-you-go networking that focuses on building professional relationships in a relaxed setting.
Orinta Gaucyte, host of Henley Business Buzz, said: “It was fantastic to see so many local businesses come together for our first Henley Buzz.
“There’s something really special about building a supportive community where people feel comfortable, included and able to make genuine connections.
“A huge thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the launch such a success.”
The launch was attended by Business Buzz co-founders Katrina Sargent and Simon George, who officially opened the event.
The Henley meetings are supported by sponsors Logic Financial Services and Logic Mortgages.
Lee Humphrey, of Logic Financial Services, said: “It’s brilliant to see an event like Business Buzz arrive in Henley.
“Creating opportunities for local businesses to connect in a relaxed and approachable way is incredibly valuable for the town, and we’re proud to support something that brings the business community closer together.”
Henley Business Buzz will take place on the fourth Thursday of each month, with the next event scheduled for Thursday, April 23.
All businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the area are welcome to attend.
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