Broadband bills could be reduced for millions of low-income households this week under new UK Government plans to encourage ‘social tariffs’. The new service will be run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and will allow internet service providers to quickly verify, with customers’ permission, whether they are in receipt of a relevant benefit which makes them eligible for a bill reduction.
The UK Government has called on all broadband providers to offer and promote social tariffs - discounted broadband and mobile deals for people on Universal Credit and other benefits - with statistics showing only 1.2% of those eligible have taken advantage of such a package.
The scheme is already supported by Virgin Media O2 who, following discussions with the UK Government, are now using the system to verify eligible customers signing up to their Essential Broadband tariff. The company will also waive early termination fees for those moving from existing tariffs.
