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<p>On Monday 27 June, 2022, leaders of the UK’s major fixed broadband, landline and
mobile operators agreed with the government a set of <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/telecoms-industry-agrees-to-new-cost-of-living-plan-following-government-summit-led-by-digital-secretary-nadine-dorries"
target="_blank">commitments</a> designed to support households through the global
rise in the cost-of-living.</p><p>Social tariffs are available to those claiming Universal
Credit, and a number of providers also accept those in receipt of other means-tested
benefits. The commitments also offer help to any household struggling with their bills.
<a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/232522/Affordability-of-Communications-Services.pdf"
target="_blank">Ofcom’s Affordability</a> report from February 2022 showed that one
in five UK households have an affordability issue with their communication service
(landline, broadband, mobile and Pay TV), and we hope that the commitments we reached
with industry will help all households who may be struggling with their costs during
this difficult time.</p><p>We anticipate a period of transition as staff are trained
and processes put in place, but the measures agreed with industry are available now,
so people should feel confident in contacting their operator if they require assistance.
The Government has also committed to work with providers to assist them raise awareness
of social tariffs. To support the sector, the government is also developing eligibility
checking software which will allow a faster, more efficient application process. We
expect these workstrands to conclude over the summer.</p><p>Social Tariffs are available
from BT, Virgin Media O2, Sky, Now Broadband, Vodafone, Hyperoptic, Country Connect,
Broadband for the Rural North, G Networks, Air Broadband, and KCOM - the government
has determined that social tariffs are available in 99% of the UK.</p><p> </p>
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