THOSE using the Restart Scheme can now also access free pre-loaded SIM cards from eight locations in the county. This gives them more digital opportunities to help with their job search.

Anyone interested should speak with their work coach at the JobCentre Plus, who will then refer them.

This new offer is thanks to Reed in Partnership becoming a National Databank Hub. The council’s Digital Essex team has helped achieve this through its work to overcome the causes of digital exclusion.

This is part of a national scheme run by Good Things Foundation that offers free mobile connectivity to people in need.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance, said: “I am delighted that Essex County Council is working with Reed in Partnership to facilitate them becoming a National Databank Hub.

“This is a great example of how we can work in partnership with the private sector to help remove the barriers which can prevent people from accessing opportunities and becoming long-term unemployed.

“In the coming months, I will be announcing further interventions to support key groups across Essex to help them access opportunities that can provide them with the skills and education they need to succeed in life.”

Steve Woodman, Operations Manager for Reed in Partnership’s Restart Scheme in Colchester, said: “We are really pleased to be working with Digital Essex and the National Databank to provide the people using our delivery of the Restart Scheme with pre-loaded SIM cards, enabling them to connect with us and access the online jobs market more easily.”

The council is committed to supporting people across Essex including working families and 16 to 25-year-olds who have been out of education, training or employment for at least six months. This is our commitment as part of the Everyone’s Essex Levelling Up programme.

Levelling Up seeks to provide initiatives for certain groups who may not have access to the same opportunities as others.