Five years of free fibre broadband, delivered by Virgin Media O2 as part of the Digital Infrastructure Programme’s social value commitments under the Dark Fibre East Project, is helping Ffydd Gobaith Cymru CIC (FGC) expand its vital support for families across Neath Port Talbot—ensuring that digital poverty doesn’t become another barrier to accessing vital services and support.
FGC is a Community Interest Company that works with families facing complex challenges including mental health struggles, substance misuse, poverty and more. Through mentoring, talks, and access to a clothes and food bank, the team provides wraparound support to those in crisis.
With reliable connectivity now in place, FGC is building a digital layer to its services so vulnerable families can access the online systems that increasingly govern everyday life. Margaret Williams, Director at FGC said:
For the families we work with, access to reliable broadband is much more than Wi-Fi, it’s access to food, housing, health and hope. By having fibre broadband at the centre, we can welcome people in, sit side-by-side, and complete the online tasks that unlock real change—whether that’s a GP referral, a benefits application, or a pathway back into work.Margaret Williams, Director, Ffydd Gobaith Cymru CIC
FGC plans to scale up its digital inclusion work providing devices, data support, and one-to-one guidance to help people safely navigate the web for work, learning, health and benefits. This means more families can access the support they need without being held back by lack of connectivity or confidence.
The organisation will also register with the UK’s leading digital inclusion charity, Good Things Foundation unlocking access to the National Databank (free mobile data SIMs), the National Device Bank (refurbished devices), and the Learn My Way platform for beginner digital skills. This will allow the team to offer structured, safe digital support to those most in need.
For more information on the work that Ffydd Gobaith Cymru does and to contact them directly, please visit their website.