Gigabit Networks is offering free, ultra-fast internet to care homes in the UK for up to a year – hoping to enrich the lives of residents so badly affected by COVID-19.
We recognise that digital technology is invaluable in helping elderly and vulnerable people stay in touch with family and friends, as well as helping with everyday tasks such as shopping, ordering prescriptions and banking, and this is heightened during the pandemic.
Working with CityFibre, the UK’s largest alternative provider of wholesale fibre network infrastructure, Gigabit Networks aims to help care home residents by providing far superior internet speeds.
Standard broadband relies on ageing copper connections, which can often be slow. Pure fibre from Gigabit Networks overcomes these limitations to deliver a considerably improved service.
Dan Ilett, CEO of Gigabit Networks, said: “Internet use among older age groups has increased substantially over the last five years – from 52% in 2011 to 83% in 2019, and the current situation is likely to speed that up even more.
“So many elderly people have been separated from their loved ones during the pandemic, as care homes have been hit very hard by the pandemic. If we can help a few more people to see each other and talk more often, albeit virtually, we believe that will only be beneficial to their overall wellbeing.
He added: “In a care home, we hope that fast and efficient internet can re-spark interests and fuel a happier life by connecting residents – without limits – to all their favourite people, hobbies and interests. We are proud to be able to support care homes in this way.”
CityFibre responded to a request fromNHSX, a government unit with responsibility for setting national policy and developing best practice for NHS technology, digital and data, to support care homes by working with its City Champions including Gigabit Networks to offer a new 1Gbps connection offer to keep care home residents and staff connected.
The scheme offers our ‘Ethernet Flex Care’ package to care homes including free installation and no monthly subscription charges for six to 12 months, depending on the contract option chosen.
The availability of gigabit internet in care homes will not only benefit residents but staff too. 1Gbps internet speeds in the workplace removes limits to communication and will improve productivity.
Companies like CityFibre are transforming Britain’s digital landscape, investing nearly £4Bn to build dense pure fibre networks in more than 60 Cities across the UK.
This offer is available to care homes when signing up to one of our “Ethernet Flex Care” plans before 30th November 2020.