Millions of low-income households could see their broadband bills reduced to as little as £15 a month under new UK Government plans to promote social tariffs. The scheme, run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), will allow internet service providers to quickly verify customers' eligibility for discounted deals based on benefit receipt.
Currently, only 1.2% of eligible households have taken up social tariffs, which are available in 99% of the country. The government is urging all providers to offer and promote these discounted packages for people on Universal Credit and other benefits, with potential savings of over £100 a year.
Virgin Media O2 has already signed up to the new verification system, waiving early termination fees for customers switching to its Essential Broadband tariff. The system removes the need for customers to prove their entitlement monthly, simplifying the process.
David Buttress, the UK Government’s Cost of Living Business Tsar, said: “Times are tough and families across the country are feeling the pinch, so we’re making it easier for companies to reduce phone and broadband bills for struggling families.” Work and Pensions Secretary Thérèse Coffey added: “It’s more important than ever that people get the financial support available to them.”
Providers must gain customer consent before checking eligibility with DWP, which will only confirm benefit entitlement without sharing further data. A full list of social tariffs is available on the Ofcom website.
