As Academic Librarians and the Skills at Library team, we work in partnership with academic staff to embed information skills that empower students. When students can confidently find, evaluate, and use information, they’re better prepared to overcome information barriers, produce higher-quality work, and engage more deeply with their studies.
Developing strong information skills is a vital part of academic success—but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Students also need access to the digital tools and platforms that support learning and research. Without the ability to engage with the online world when, where, and how they need to, they face digital exclusion. Students facing financial hardship are especially vulnerable. Without reliable internet access, they may struggle to participate in online learning, access university resources, or stay connected to support networks.
To help address this, the Library has joined the National Digital Inclusion Network and the National Databank, enabling us to offer free SIM cards to students who need support with mobile data. This service is part of our wider commitment to digital inclusion and removing barriers to information access.
This page brings together everything you need to know about the SIM card support service, along with resources for teaching and researching digital inclusion. Whether you’re supporting students directly or exploring these issues in your own work, we invite you to:
We believe that no student should be left behind because of data poverty, and we’re proud to offer free SIM cards with mobile data, texts, and calls to students experiencing financial hardship—thanks to the UK National Databank, a nationwide initiative tackling data poverty.
Through our partnership with the National Databank, the Library now provides free SIM cards with mobile data, texts, and calls to eligible students. This service is designed to help students:
Please encourage students who may be struggling with internet access to:
We’ve curated a selection of resources to support staff in exploring digital inclusion in their teaching, research, and professional development:
The Library is now a member of the National Digital Inclusion Network, giving us access to:
If you’d like to be added to the Library’s account, please get in touch.
To collaborate with us or to find out more about how we can support you and your students, please contact your Liaison Librarian or complete our teaching request form.
