SimPal (pre-paid SIM cards for low incomes)
Obviously it’s not good to be on your phone all the time. But these days, not having access to a mobile phone can sometimes leave vulnerable people feeling scared and alone, and even cut off from their GP or being able to find a job. Or claim benefits that they are entitled to.
SimPal is an award-winning charity that provides free pre-paid SIM cards (6 months duration with 20G data per month) to people affected by digital poverty. Or those living with cancer or poor health. Where possible, actual phones are also provided. This lets people on low incomes stay in touch, call for help or apply for jobs and benefits (the service is not means-tested).
The charity welcomes donated factory-set 4G working phones to their website’s registered address, if you have any sitting in drawers. These must be in working condition (no broken screens, with passwords and Google accounts removed).
Here are testimonials from people who have benefited from Simpal:
A woman in London with multiple disabilities had her 8-year phone break. This cut her off from healthcare professionals, support staff and vital services. She could not manage her care, pay bills or plan any travel.
A young boy with cancer was undergoing medical treatment for leukaemia and other serious conditions. A mobile phone and SIM helped him stay in touch with medical teams, school and family (including when he was in hospital for a long time).
A patient with breathing difficulties (who finds it difficult to even move independently) now can order food, contact the GP and feel more connected.
A refugee living in emergency accommodation was disconnected from his housing officer and support services, when his phone broke. His new phone is now the turning point to a stable job, income and home.
A homeless man (due to family breakdown) ended up feeling hopeless, and even got arrested. He’s now building his life again with professional support, after mental health issues. Thanks to Simpal, he now has a phone to stay in contact with friends and his probation officer, and ensure he can access his benefits, to get his life sorted.
Why support Simpal?
It’s not good to spend life on your phone. But in this day and age, it’s often necessary for people (especially without stabel homes or landlines) to have access to a mobile. To claim benefits, look for work, talk to a GP or even move home.
By using prepaid SIM cards, this is an empowering way to help vulnerable people to sort their lives out, and become independent. The company even gives out free phones to help patients with cancer, if they need to find contacts to help them with everything from medical to financial support.
Isn’t it nice when companies are founded simply to do good, rather than to become millionaires? This charity has done so much good, and can do more if you donate unwanted SIM cards and phones sitting in drawers!
