A broadband provider has launched a campaign to offer free internet for local families and ensure ‘no child is digitally excluded in Blackburn’.

6Gi, the home broadband provider, is teaming up with schools to ensure every child has access to the internet at home.

The company said it had already partnered with community groups and was now looking to expand the service further.

Any child who does not have broadband can get it installed in their home at no cost with no contracts, on their school's recommendation.

Head of digital social inclusion, Ian Clough, said: “Digital exclusion can severely hinder children's educational growth, social integration, and future job prospects, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.

“We want to address this inequality and help families and communities to thrive.

“As part of our ‘Internet for Everyone’ campaign, an initiative to reduce the digital divide in the North West, we are offering 20 per cent of our network for free. 

“This includes providing free internet to those families that need it the most.

“Through our campaign, we have already partnered with charities, schools, and community groups to provide free connections for more than 300 families and individuals since the network went live in the Blackburn area.”

Lancashire Telegraph: Tara Murray 6Gi, the home broadband provider, with Vice Principal Rachel Lewis and Marc Jackson

Darwen Aldridge Academy has worked with the company to improve access to the internet for some of it’s pupils.

Trust lead for enterprise and personal development, Sarah Carroll, said: "Through our Aldridge Foundation, which works closely with our Trust and our schools, it was great to learn more about the work of 6Gi. 

“Their commitment to digital inclusion across communities really chimes with the ethos of Aldridge Education: making sure no child is left behind, and that every student has access to a great education. 

“We're pleased to be supporting 6Gi's work, and helping them to find some families across our four Darwen schools who would benefit most from having easy access to the internet.

“We all know how fundamental being digitally connected is to our everyday lives, from keeping in touch with loved ones to doing online shopping - and of course, for learning too."

Ian said they were asking local school leaders to tell them who may needs a free connection.

He said: “Referral and nominations are entirely at the school's discretion. We will provide free internet access based on the school’s recommendation.

"There are no formal checklists, criteria, or assessments for families. If we can help, we will.

“Once we receive the referrals, we will liaise with the school and the family to arrange the installation. It really is as simple as that.

“It's all free. The school doesn't have to pay anything, and neither does the nominated family. The internet will stay free for as long as the family lives in that house or flat.

"There's no contract, add-ons, or anything else they need to buy from us.”

Connections are live within weeks of the family being nominated to 6Gi, although some installations may take longer.

Teacher and staff from schools in East Lancashire, the Fylde Coast or North Manchester can get in touch with Ian directly by emailing  ian.clough@6ginternet.net.uk. Parents can speak to their school.