Government urges eligible customers to apply for social tariffs to get cheaper broadband
The UK government has advised customers on low incomes to apply for cheaper broadband packages via social tariffs to ease the effects of the cost-of-living crisis this winter.
The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport said it has been working with internet service providers to offer discounted broadband to people claiming benefits.
The social tariff for those who are eligible reduces the prices of phone and broadband packages that are fast enough for essential everyday tasks, such as paying bills and communicating with friends and family.
The government scheme aims to encourage households claiming Universal Credit and Pension Credit to apply for social tariffs after research found that just 1.2% of those who are eligible are taking advantage of low-cost broadband.
In the summer, former Digital Secretary Nadine Dorries said the tariffs were “vital” for those struggling with the cost of bills.
Ofcom is also urging providers to offer more social tariffs to help customers.
Those receiving various benefits can obtain a BT Home Essentials package with speeds of around 36 Mbps for just £15 per month.
Sky Broadband, Virgin Media, Vodafone, Hyperoptic and EE are also offering affordable broadband, phone and mobile services.
The government says social tariffs can help customers save more than £180 per year on bills.
It advised anyone who is receiving government benefits to find out more about the discounted plans by visiting the Ofcom website.
Any customers with a provider who does not offer a social tariff can switch to a new provider without being charged a fee for leaving their provider.
Ofcom added that the cost of the package will not increase mid-contract.