According to the government, the program, which is now funded by Virgin Media O2, may save some households hundreds of pounds annually.
Ministers are asking all broadband providers to offer “social tariffs” that allow low-income households to acquire cheaper mobile and internet packages to alleviate the strain of rising living expenses.
This week, the Department for Work and Pensions will launch a new tool that will enable internet service providers to verify, with customers’ permission, whether they are receiving a relevant benefit and are consequently entitled to additional financial assistance.
According to the government, the program, which is now funded by Virgin Media O2, may save some households hundreds of pounds annually.
David Buttress, the government’s cost of living business czar, has stated his commitment to expanding and supporting the concept of social tariffs.
Mr. Buttress stated, “In these trying times, people throughout the nation are feeling the pinch, so we’re making it easier for firms to decrease phone and broadband prices for struggling families.”
“Some of the largest network operators have already committed to utilizing this new program, and we want other providers to follow their example so that everyone qualified for a social tariff has access to one.
This is just one of the ways we’re engaging with businesses to offer assistance through our Help for Households campaign, which builds on the government’s existing £37 billion support package.
Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey stated, “It is more vital than ever that people receive the available financial assistance.”
She said, “I’d like to applaud those suppliers who are pioneering the transition of clients to discount rates, and I encourage others to follow suit to assist millions of people to reduce their bills.”
Even though several carriers now provide so-called “social tariffs,” only 1.2% of those eligible have opted for them, according to government data.
Currently, claimants are required to demonstrate their eligibility every month by giving the broadband provider images of their Universal Credit account or by providing a letter from the Jobcentre.
