Connecting the West Midlands: Affordable Broadband for All
Did you know that 4.3 million households in the UK are eligible for Broadband Social Tariffs? These special tariffs provide affordable internet access to households receiving certain government benefits, yet only 5.1% of eligible households have taken advantage of this offer. At Digital Birmingham, we’re urging businesses, community groups, charities, education providers, and the housing sector to support our campaign to help residents during the cost of living crisis. Nearly half of the residents in our region have limited internet access. It’s time to change this statistic and build a more connected, prosperous, fairer, greener, and healthier West Midlands.
The Birmingham Digital Partnership has been pivotal in bringing together a diverse coalition of stakeholders to make this project a reality. By fostering collaboration between local government, private enterprises, non-profits, and community organizations, the partnership has created a united front to tackle digital exclusion. This collective effort has enabled the pooling of resources, sharing of expertise, and a concerted push to raise awareness about the benefits of social tariffs. Thanks to the Birmingham Digital Partnership, the West Midlands is not just aiming for better connectivity but achieving it through a community-driven approach.
What is a Social Tariff?
A social tariff is a lower-cost broadband and mobile service available to eligible residents, typically those receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and other benefits. Offered by most major providers, these packages provide the same quality service as standard tariffs but at a reduced price. Here’s what makes social tariffs beneficial:
Lower Setup Costs: It’s affordable to get started, and switching to a social tariff is free if your provider offers it.
Price Stability: Your monthly rate won’t increase mid-contract; the price agreed upon at the start remains the same.
No Exit Fees: If you need to leave the tariff before the end of your contract, there are no penalties.
Are You Eligible?
You are likely eligible for a social tariff if you or someone in your household receives:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income Support
Some providers also consider additional benefits like Personal Independence Payment and Attendance Allowance. The main contract holder should be the person receiving the benefit. Eligibility criteria may vary, so check with your provider or consult OFCOM’s resources to confirm.
Other Affordable Broadband Options
If you don’t qualify for social tariffs but belong to a low-income household, some broadband providers offer low-cost plans not tied to specific benefits. Comparison websites like Uswitch can help you find the cheapest broadband deals. However, these plans may not offer the same benefits as social tariffs, such as no cancellation fees.
Understanding Your Broadband Speed
Ensure you’re getting the speeds promised by your provider. Use a broadband speed test to verify your current connection speed. Websites like Which? offer tools to check your speed.
How to Apply
For more details and to apply for a social tariff, visit the OFCOM or Money Saving Expert websites:
Social tariffs: Cheaper broadband and phone packages – Ofcom
Discounted ‘social tariffs’ for those on certain benefits (Money Saving Expert)
Join Our Campaign!
Support our mission to connect the West Midlands by accessing the Get Connect for Less Marketing Toolkit available on the WMCA website.