In a distressing revelation, nearly 5 million households across the UK are potentially overlooking broadband discounts that could save them an average of £220 annually. Industry specialists are calling this oversight a significant “cost of living scandal,” urging those eligible to take action and benefit from available social tariffs.
The Hidden Costs of Connectivity
Research from Broadband Genie highlights that about 5.3 million homes qualify for discounted broadband rates aimed at low-income families or those receiving specific benefits, such as Universal Credit. Alarmingly, around 4.8 million of these eligible households are not claiming these vital reductions, resulting in an estimated £1.05 billion left unclaimed each year.
Georgina Colman, the founder of Purpl, a platform dedicated to connecting disabled individuals with financial assistance, expressed deep concern over this issue. She described it as a “cost of living scandal hiding in plain sight,” emphasising that countless low-income individuals, particularly those with disabilities, are overpaying for essential internet services simply because they remain unaware of the help that is available.
Understanding Social Tariffs
Social tariffs provide a critical lifeline for those struggling to afford internet access. Major telecom providers, including BT, Sky, Virgin, and Vodafone, offer various affordable options tailored to different income levels. For instance, BT’s ‘Home Essentials’ tariff starts at just £16 per month for those with no income, while other tiers provide services at £22 and £25 for higher bandwidths. Despite these offerings, there remains a pervasive lack of awareness about these schemes.
Colman further stated, “Broadband is an essential service. When households could be saving around £220 a year, the lack of awareness surrounding social tariffs is letting people down.” For many, the internet is not merely a luxury but a crucial means of staying connected with family and friends, managing health needs, and combating social isolation.
The Wider Implications
The issue of unclaimed support extends beyond broadband. According to estimates from Policy in Practice, approximately £24 billion worth of benefits went unclaimed in 2025/26 due to factors such as stigma, complexity, and lack of awareness. Among these, missed broadband discounts represent the largest missed opportunity, with unclaimed Universal Credit benefits leading the way at an astonishing £11.1 billion.
The implications of these missed claims are dire, especially for vulnerable populations. As digital access becomes increasingly integral to daily life, failing to secure affordable broadband could isolate individuals from essential services and social connections.
Why it Matters
The staggering number of eligible households missing out on vital broadband discounts underscores a larger issue of accessibility and awareness within our society. As the cost of living continues to rise, ensuring that low-income families and individuals can maintain internet access is crucial. It is not just about saving money; it is about safeguarding connections to the world, enhancing quality of life, and fostering inclusivity. By bringing attention to these overlooked schemes, we can empower those in need to reclaim their rights to affordable services, enhancing their sense of community and belonging in an increasingly digital age.
