A new scheme being delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is aiming to help Sky customers access cheaper broadband rates.
The broadband giant has become the first major connectivity provider to join the DWP initiative, reports Manchester Evening News. The scheme aims to make it easier for benefit claimants to receive discounts on their mobile and broadband tariffs.
According to the DWP, families on lower incomes could save as much as £180 per year compared to their standard industry tariffs.
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The DWP will automatically verify the customers who are eligible for the scheme - which means that claimants will not need to prove that they claim benefits while on a tariff designed for low-income households, as they previously had to do.
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Minister for Social Mobility, Youth and Progression Mims Davies said: "It’s positive to see a major provider, such as Sky, sign up to our scheme, making it easier for families to access cheaper broadband and mobile tariffs in difficult times, and I call on other providers to follow suit in offering this type of tariff for those in need. Claimants who think they might be eligible for one of these tariffs, should contact their provider.
"This is just one of the ways we are working to help households during these tough times as part of the government’s £37 billion support package for those most in need. Do use the DWP benefits calculator, which is a helpful tool for those looking to see if they could access wider support."
Before this new system was introduced, people on a low-income broadband tariff had to verify their entitlement to providers with Jobcentre letters or screenshots of their Universal Credit account.
Stephen van Rooyen, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer, Sky, UK & Europe, said: "We know how important connectivity is to our customers, which is why we are focussed on ways we can support them to stay online. As well as support with bills, we also provide existing, eligible customers with a broadband and mobile social tariff, helping them stay connected for a significantly reduced cost.
"The Department for Work and Pensions eligibility tool is a useful step forward, enabling us to more easily confirm eligibility."
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