Media industry watchdog Ofcom has this week called on broadband providers to offer discounted deals in the form of social tariffs to support households on low incomes through the cost-of-living crisis.
Households in receipt of Universal Credit are eligible for discounted broadband rates, but only 55,000 out of around 4.2 million eligible homes are currently taking advantage, with those not doing so losing out on £144 in savings.
Only six providers currently offer the social tariff deal which costs between £10 and £20 per month, compared to a standard package which costs around £27. These include BT, Community Fibre, G.Network, Hyperoptic, KCOM and Virgin Media O2.
However, the regulator has deemed that there is “limited” proof of the providers actually marketing their cheaper tariffs to eligible customers, and it has now called upon these firms to better publicise cheaper deals to raise awareness.
Indeed, Ofcom found that 84 per cent of those on benefits were unaware that social tariffs existed, which prompted the regulator to call on those providing it to market the product better, as well as urging those not offering a social tariff to begin doing so.
Ofcom said in a statement: “We want to see all companies promote these deals more widely, and make sure it's swift and simple for customers to sign up.”
Ofcom communication director, Lindsey Fussell, told the BBC: “We expect companies to step up support for those on low incomes, and we'll be watching their response.”
Photo by Compare Fibre on Unsplash
