Community

Shaping a better world

Back to social commitment home page

''

We’re empowering communities to get connected, and to make people’s lives better.

Three and Samaritans

Our three-year partnership with Samaritans aims to connect 1 million people to emotional support. The Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the UK population’s mental health. We can use our technology, retail stores and expertise to help more people access emotional support, 24/7, 365 days a year. All through our partnership with Samaritans.

Become a Better Phone Friend

We call, we chat. We hear them. But are we really listening? Sometimes, listening is the only thing they need. It can be the difference between feeling connected and safe. Or feeling all alone. But it’s not as easy as it sounds. Together with Samaritans, we want to help everyone learn how to become a Better Phone Friend.

Samarathon: the marathon run around your life

Since 2021, we’ve been the proud sponsor of Samarathon. It’s a great way to improve wellbeing and get active throughout July, as participants run, jog or walk 26 miles over the month. And our people love getting involved – boosting their wellbeing and raising funds for Samaritans along the way.

Digital skills with Discovery

Our communities can make the most of the online world with our free Discovery sessions. Online or in store, we’re helping people to gain and develop their digital skills. These free courses inspire our customers and community groups to get more from digital technology. From getting to grips with the basics, to supporting small businesses’ with their online ambitions, we’re getting people better connected.

Reconnected

For most of us, being connected via a smartphone is something we take for granted. But, for millions of people in the UK, smartphones are a luxury they just can’t afford. We believe phones are a necessity they can’t afford to miss out on. Since 2017, we’ve been working with some incredible charities to help disadvantaged people all over the UK get connected to the digital world, with Reconnected.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to support the causes we’re passionate about. That’s why at Three, our people can take 3 days’ paid leave to volunteer, every year.

Community Fund

The Community Fund aims to help the organisations and groups that mean a lot to our people. That’s why each month, our employees nominate up to 5 local charities to receive £500 from us. Since the Fund launched in 2012, we’ve donated over £250,000 to organisations nationwide.

Staying safe online

Phones are good – they entertain us, they make life easier, and they keep us connected with friends and family. However, the internet and social media attract trolls and online bullies. Nobody likes them. We’ve all seen them and worryingly, lots of us – children and adults alike – have experienced cyberbullying first-hand. Read our guide for staying safe online along with top tips and what to do if you’re being bullied online.

Local partnerships

We’re a proud strategic partner of LetsLocalise, the digital social innovation that empowers educators across the country. Since 2019, we’ve helped schools get connected, and provided essential devices to teachers and students. Plus we’ve helped students to better understand and access STEM careers.

Each Christmas, our people come together to support two charities close to their hearts. The Brett Foundation works to eradicate loneliness in the Thames Valley area. It supports the homeless and provides household and school essentials for those who need it most. Kids Out supports children who have escaped domestic violence, and been forced to flee their homes without their possessions.

To find out more contact our CSR Team: Community@three.co.uk