Let’s talk about social tariffs. These are discounted broadband deals offered to people receiving certain benefits — a small step by providers to make internet access more affordable for everyone.
We know broadband isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. From working at home to managing bills and staying connected, having reliable internet is non-negotiable.
That’s why we’re glad to see more providers offering social tariffs in response to rising costs and everyday challenges.
Have you ever used one? Or tried applying for one? We’d love to hear your experience — good or bad.
If you want to learn more or check your eligibility, we’ve got a handy guide here
I’m not on a social tariff. But I’d recommend searching for the best price for the internet performance you need. No phone. No bundled landline. Just the internet speed -say 150Mb/s down from company xyz. Then discuss with your current provider as you approach the end of your contract to match or beat the deal. You’d be surprised what they will do to keep a customer. If they won’t match or beat, then switch to the new provider. Some, like Vodafone will even pay some of your exit fees.
Welcome to the Broadband Genie community @Juliandc
You’re spot on about the power of negotiating with your provider near the end of your contract. It’s great advice and something a lot of people don’t realise they can do.
Really interesting to hear about Vodafone covering some exit fees too — I hadn’t come across that before and I wonder if other providers do this?
Welcome @christopher_hutton - it looks like things are changing, the BBG team recently spoke to Community Fibre, Hyperoptic and Vodafone about their social tariffs - maybe the innovation of the smaller companies will put some pressure on the bigger providers to step up? The government currently considers 10mb to be “decent” although that is, hopefully, under review, as people increasingly need higher speeds just to access basic services, work and education.
Hard to predict but the government has just announced a new charter with telecoms companies, one aspect of which is making social tariffs more visible - which might mean more pressure to make them fit for purpose for modern living?
