We celebrate 4 years of social activity: we donated 20,000 devices!

Hubbub and Virgin Media O2 are excited to share the progress we’ve made in our longest partnership yet. Community Calling, our smartphone redistribution programme, has officially celebrated its 4th anniversary. Since launching during the pandemic, the partnership has gone from strength to strength, with 20,000 devices now being delivered to those who need them most.

Changing lives, device by device

The devices we redistribute through Community Calling are more than just phones, they are lifelines. Imagine complex job applications, scheduled doctor visits, calls to distant loved ones, and endless selfies.

By working with a network of great charities, community groups and local councils (such as Migrant Help, Crisis and Change Please) we have been able to reach and support a wide range of people, from victims of domestic abuse and refugees to children with diabetes and the homeless.

The impact has been significant and goes beyond the gifting of devices: Community Calling devices are powered by free O2 mobile data from the National Database, and phone recipients are connected to digital skills training, giving them the skills and confidence to navigate today’s digital world.

Maximize every donation

It’s not just the devices we give away that make an impact! By working with Genuine Solutions, we can make every phone count: all donated devices that are not suitable for redistribution are recycled or sold, with the proceeds going back to the project. Genuine Solutions also supports all beneficiaries with cables and chargers from recycled sources, preventing even more devices from becoming electronic waste.

Help us reach even more people – donate your device to us

While we celebrate Community Calling’s achievements to date, we recognise there is still a long way to go. According to Ofcom, 1.5 million homes in the UK still lack internet access. We need your help to continue bridging this digital divide.

Do you have an old smartphone sitting in a drawer collecting dust (you wouldn’t be alone if you were!)? Celebrate this milestone with us by donating it to Community Calling and make a real difference to someone’s life.

Learn more about Community Calling and how to donate your phone here.