Homeless man says he was ‘completely isolated’ without a phone as Crisis launch Christmas SIM card gift scheme

For someone who is homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless, having a digital connection to help and support through a phone or a tablet can be a “lifeline”.

There are over 170,000 families and individuals in the UK without a permanent home. As the impact of coronavirus on society continues to unfold, a recent Crisis study of homeless charities and organisations found that over three-quarters (76 per cent) had seen an increase in the number of people experiencing digital exclusion and seeking help for basic digital support.

Crisis and Tesco Mobile have combined forces to help change this – by asking the public to give a gift this Christmas to tackle digital exclusion issues for those who need it most.

One man who has slept rough told i the phone and laptop he was gifted has changed his life, such is the importance of the internet and email access to get help.

As part of the scheme, Tesco Mobile will match donations up to £50,000 on Christmas SIM Cards bought from the Crisis website before 7 January. It’s part of a two-year partnership, with the company committed to donating over £2.4m to help 13,000 vulnerable and disadvantaged people reconnect with society.

Reconnecting with family

Ste Preston became homeless after a relationship breakdown in April last year. Initially, he slept rough and then found a place in a hostel, then spent six weeks back on the streets.

The 62-year-old had his phone for just five days before it was stolen. “I’ve slept in some awful places, doorways, public toilets, an abandoned house… though you don’t really sleep,” he said. “You don’t feel safe and you can’t relax. I was never attacked but you live in fear of it, I’ve been spat at. People assume you’re an alcoholic or drug addict. And your things get stolen.”

It was living in supported temporary accommodation this year that Ste got help through Crisis. “Without a phone I felt completely isolated. Having one and data now means I’ve been able to reconnect with my family.”

Practical help like benefits

As well as social connection, the internet has practical benefits, such as applying for benefits. “I didn’t claim benefits until this year,” said Ste. “I didn’t think I could without a fixed address and you need a computer to apply for them and do all the communicating online.”

People who are sleeping on the streets or in a hostel can actually claim benefits, even if they don’t have a fixed address or a bank account, according to Shelter, but lack of connectivity can mean many are not aware of their entitlements.

The roll out of Universal Credit has been criticised for its requirement to apply online, though due to campaigning, many Jobcentres now offer extra support for people who are struggling to access a computer.

“I’m so grateful I could get help from Crisis, especially during the pandemic as I couldn’t access a computer in a library with them being closed,” said Ste.

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Learning new skills and feeling empowered

Ste has also been able to complete various courses online, such as creative writing, which have helped him develop skills and confidence. He’s contributed to the Crisis magazine and been involved in theatre activities via Zoom and podcasts.

“That’s really helped my confidence,” said the former electrician. “It’s made a massive difference to my mental health, being creative, especially during lockdown.

“Being able to connect online generally during the pandemic when so many have struggled with isolation has been brilliant.”

To give the gift of connection this Christmas, you can buy a virtual Tesco Mobile Christmas (SIM) card at the Crisis Shop to Stop Homelessness from £5 here. 

Do you have a real life story? Email claudia.tanner@inews.co.uk.

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