One of my friends was really skint, our other friend gave her her old phone after upgrading. She needed it for job applications tbh, there was a local library with computers, but everyone else was doing the same - using them for necessary stuff because they didn't have their own Internet access at home - so it was hard to get on one, and opening hours were sporadic.
Plus the phone meant she could keep in touch with friends and family instead of sliding into depression, and she could buy necessary items online for half the price, instead of being limited to overpriced local shops.
Actually, the more I think about it, that phone was a lifesaver. Let's not forget that a smartphone isn't just built for entertainment, it's an extremely powerful and useful tool.
Also often poverty isn't about the actual money people earn, it's when and how they earn it. If you work zero hours on a temporary contract, your hourly rate may well be a few quid over NMW, but it's a nightmare for budgeting and saving. Then the minute you get some savings behind you to tide you over the weeks you don't get enough hours, either your car dies or your temp contract ends and you have to look for something new.
That's before you get on to the Dickensian hell that is private renting
It's horrible. So many jobs have been ruined by this. The insecurity and anxiety it breeds is terrible.