Lloyds Banking Group is to partner with charities and digital skills providers to support elderly and vulnerable customers through the Coronavirus crisis.

The tie-up with We Are Digital will provide a specialist phone line to help up to 20,000 customers access the internet at a time where gaining digital skills will help people stay connected to their finances.

As part of its pilot phase, it will also see up to 2,000 tablet devices delivered free of charge to over-70s isolated by COVID-19.

With guidance from We Are Digital’s agents, users will learn skills to help with everyday digital tasks such as online shopping and connecting virtually with family and friends, as well as online banking.

The bank is also continuing to boost its support for long-term charity partner Mental Health UK and is extending funding to The Silver Line, partner to Age UK, to run a 24/7 helpline and friendship services to those aged 55 and over who may be feeling lonely or isolated.

The partnerships are the latest in a package of measures rolled out by the bank to help customers through financial challenges in the Coronavirus crisis, including payment holidays on mortgages, loans and cards, access to a £500 interest free overdraft, removing fees for missed payments and access to fixed term accounts without charge.

Fiona Cannon, sustainable business director at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “For many right now, staying connected and accessing vital services is difficult – and for those experiencing isolation, this also can have profound effects on their mental health.

“That’s why we believe offering practical and emotional support through initiatives such as these is so important in helping our vulnerable customers to feel more connected and in control - this is just one of the ways we are making it that bit easier for our customers to manage their finances and mental health during the current crisis."

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