Vodafone is giving free global roaming to all of Britain's servicemen and women so they can keep in touch with loved ones from almost anywhere they are stationed in the world. The unique offer, announced in the run-up to Remembrance Day, means people in the Armed Forces can use their mobile for calls and data as if they were at home in Britain for no extra cost.
It comes as new research shows that more than half of military personnel restrict contact with loved ones when they are stationed abroad because they can't afford it. And two thirds say they suffer emotional problems from being isolated from those at home.
This offer for military personnel gives them a free Vodafone's Global Traveller package which allows them to use their mobile for calls, messages and data in 83 countries throughout the globe as if they were at home.
International roaming charges are often more expensive because they cover the costs of accessing and maintaining secure, reliable mobile networks abroad. A one hour call from USA, Canada or Kenya could cost £144, and for places like Germany, Gibraltar, Norway, Cyprus and Estonia it would be £36 without the package.
"Our findings highlight just how essential it is for service personnel to stay connected with their families - not just for morale, but for their emotional wellbeing as well - especially at this time of the year when Remembrance Day is at the forefront of our thoughts." said Steve Knibbs, Director, Vodafone Business Security Enhanced (VBSE).
"Far too often, members of the armed forces have faced difficult decisions about when and how to reach out to their loved ones because of cost concerns. By removing roaming charges globally, we're making it easier for armed forces personnel to maintain those all-important connections, wherever their service takes them. It's a straightforward change that makes a real difference to people's lives."