The Access For All programme provides residents with devices, connectivity, and digital skills support - all in one package. It’s designed to remove barriers that prevent people from getting online, helping them access essential services, stay connected, and build confidence in the digital world.
Please note: this is a referral-only programme and is not open for direct applications from residents.
Who can be referred
We welcome referrals for residents who are digitally excluded and meet all of the following criteria:
- A resident of the borough
- In receipt of a low income
- Aged 18 or over
- Have no access to a device
- Have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home.
Referrals can be made by council teams, members of our Digital Communities Partnership, community organisations, charities, and other professionals working with residents who face challenges accessing digital services.
What does each recipient receive
Every referred resident will receive:
- A refurbished or donated laptop - enabling access to online services, learning, and communication
- A MiFi unit (a portable wireless device that creates a personal Wi-Fi hotspot using a mobile data SIM) with six months of free connectivity - powered by the National Databank
- Digital skills support materials - connecting recipients to local TechMate sessions and trusted resources for ongoing learning.
Why is Access For All important
Digital exclusion can lead to isolation and limit access to vital services such as healthcare, job applications, and financial management. By providing devices, connectivity, and skills support together, Access For All helps residents:
- Build confidence using technology
- Access essential online services independently
- Stay connected with family, friends, and community
- Explore opportunities for learning and employment.
This programme is part of Wigan Council’s commitment to reduce inequalities and strengthen digital resilience across the borough.
How to refer to Access For All
Professionals can refer residents through our online Access For All referral form.
Once a referral is received, our team will review and triage it within 10 working days. We will then contact you (the referrer) to arrange the next steps, which include signing the necessary waivers with the resident, confirming collection details for the device pack, and setting up any additional support required.
Access For All partners work with referrers throughout the process to ensure the resident receives the best possible experience.
Please note: referrers are not expected to provide digital skills support themselves, they are required to maintain contact with the resident for at least three months after the device has been gifted. This helps check progress and ensures the resident benefits from the scheme. If extra help is needed, referrers can signpost the resident to Digital Wigan for TechMate support. Full details of these responsibilities are outlined in the application form.
National Databank: Free mobile data for those who need it
Access For All integrates with the National Databank, a UK-wide initiative providing free mobile data to people who can’t afford connectivity. Through Access For All residents receive six months of free data with their MiFi device.
You don’t need to be referred to Access For All to benefit from the National Databank. The National Databank is a UK-wide initiative that provides free mobile data to people who need it most, helping them stay connected and access essential online services.
To qualify, you must be:
- Be aged 18 or over
- AND be from a low-income household.
You must also qualify in one or more of the following statements:
- Have no access or insufficient access to the internet at home
- AND/OR have no or insufficient access to the internet when away from the home
- AND/OR cannot afford your existing monthly contract or top up.
If you qualify for the National Databank and need support, join us at one of our TechMate Tea Parties to learn more and get connected.