Independent Age, a charitable organisation, is urging internet providers to better advertise their social tariffs for broadband. This could enable more elderly people who are financially stretched to realise they could be paying as little as £12.50 per month for their broadband through the Virgin Media Essentials social tariff.
At present, there are over 30 social tariffs for broadband available from providers across Great Britain. A quick phone call to your provider could significantly reduce your bill ahead of next month’s price hikes.
The easiest way to find out if you’re eligible for a cheaper broadband package is to get in touch with your provider directly. If you’re currently receiving benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Income Support, check the guide at the end of this article to see which providers include those benefits in their eligibility criteria – this applies to individuals of all ages.
Recent research from Independent Age reveals that nearly half of State Pensioners (48%) on a low income have struggled to keep up with their broadband bill in the last six months. The charity has expressed concerns that the cost of living crisis is deepening the ‘digital divide,’ putting older individuals at risk of increased isolation due to financial difficulties.
The lack of online access could be costing them dearly in missed financial benefits, potential savings, and vital social interactions. In a shocking revelation, only a meagre 5.1% of those eligible are taking advantage of broadband social tariffs, leaving approximately 4 million people potentially out of pocket, reports the Daily Record.
Fran McSweeney, Head of National Services at Independent Age, weighed in on the matter, stating: “Social tariffs can be a lifeline to help older people who are struggling financially stay connected. The internet can help people in later life stay in touch with friends and family and to access information on financial entitlements, deals and services but it has to be affordable. If you receive a means-tested benefit, it’s vital that you find out if you’re eligible for a social tariff.”
For those uncertain about their eligibility, McSweeney recommends: “You can find out whether you’re eligible and for a list of what providers are offering through the Ofcom website. These start at £12 per month and are designed with customers who need extra support in mind. Contact your current supplier for more information.”
Independent Age is urging older people who are foregoing necessities to afford broadband, to explore unclaimed benefits that could boost their income. This can be achieved online at independentage.org or by dialling 0800 319 6789 for a free and confidential welfare benefits check to see if you’re eligible for support you’re not currently receiving.
The complete list of social tariffs for broadband and mobile phones can be found on the Ofcom website. A social tariff could result in savings of around £200 each year.
The fastest way to determine if you might qualify for a social tariff is to contact your supplier directly and inquire – even if you do not qualify, they may be able to suggest other ways to lower your broadband bill. A new system implemented in 2022 allows broadband providers to quickly check eligibility by accessing a special Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) IT system – with the claimant’s consent.
The DWP‘s system will be able to confirm entitlement for the following: Benefits and social tariffs for broadband. The providers listed below are taken from the latest guidance on social tariff broadband packages from Ofcom.
