An equipment loan scheme to help people suffering from poor mobile connection has been launched by the River Severn Partnership Advanced Wireless Innovation Region (RSPAWIR).
Co-ordinated by Warwickshire County Council, people living in rural ‘not-spots’ across the River Severn Partnership catchment area are being offered the opportunity to borrow antennas and routers for up to two months to trial their effectiveness at enhancing weak mobile phone signals.
There are 50 units available in the first instance, and the scheme is being offered as a ‘try before you buy’ opportunity.
Councillor Martin Watson, Warwickshire County Council portfolio holder for economy, said: “We know there are rural areas across the region where connectivity is at best weak and at worst non-existent and that is frustrating on a personal level and detrimental to business.
“Both fixed and mobile connectivity are essential in today’s world, in business and in our daily lives and the RSPAWIR booster loan scheme allows people to borrow the equipment to upgrade their mobile connectivity and to prove its effectiveness. If the testing is a success, they can consider purchasing the equipment, or the equipment can be returned to be loaned out elsewhere.”
The booster kit consists of an antenna, which can be attached to an upstairs window and a modem with a quad-band sim card. It can be easily installed and does not require any permanent fixing.
The manufacturer, Solwise, offers online technical advice and guidance to optimise the equipment’s performance.
To find out more about the loan scheme or to request an equipment loan please call George Boston or Susie Harrison at Warwickshire County Council on 01926 410410 or email rspsignalbooster@warwickshire.gov.uk