Wrexham residents are being urged to check they’re getting the best deal for their broadband after reports that millions of households across the UK are missing out.
National regulator Ofcom says up to 4.2 million households could halve their broadband bills by taking up special discounted packages available to customers who receive Universal Credit.
These packages – sometimes known as ‘social tariffs’ – could help many families make vital savings at a time when many people are feeling the pinch.
However, only 55,000 homes in the UK have taken advantage of the discounted rates so far – just 1.2% of those eligible.
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Every penny counts
There are six broadband providers – BT, Community Fibre, G.Network, Hyperoptic, KCOM and Virgin Media O2 – that offer these specially discounted deals at the moment, priced at £10-£20 a month for broadband speeds ranging from 10Mbit/s to 67Mbit/s.
Ofcom is calling on providers to do more to promote these deals to customers, and wants more companies to offer social tariffs.
Councillor David Kelly, Wrexham Council’s lead member with responsibility for digital inclusion, says: “With the cost of living rising, it’s important that families get the best deals on their broadband.
“The discounted social tariffs that some suppliers offer can really help families reduce their monthly bills, so if you receive Universal Credit it’s definitely worth looking into.
“Contact your supplier and see what they can offer. Broadband is something we all rely on for so many things these days, and every penny counts.”
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