Kent County Council Urges Locals to Snap Up Social Tariff Broadband Deals
Kent County Council (KCC) is on a mission to boost awareness of social tariffs — discounted broadband packages for households struggling with their bills. As broadband costs climb amid the soaring cost of living, KCC wants eligible families to save up to £150 a year.
Digital Lifeline Amid Rising Costs
The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed everyone online, whether it’s keeping in touch with family, working from home, or accessing crucial services and education. Yet many in Kent remain offline due to unaffordable broadband. Council leader Roger Gough said,
“It is vital that no one should be left behind in today’s digital age, which is why we want to raise awareness of the support and discounted rates for families who cannot currently access digital services. We know that digital connectivity is no longer a luxury but a fundamental need.”
Just 1.2% of Eligible Households Have Social Tariffs
Shockingly, only 1.2% of those eligible for broadband or mobile social tariffs have signed up. The Government is pressing providers to roll out and promote these discounted deals, especially for people on Universal Credit and other benefits.
How KCC Is Tackling Digital Exclusion
KCC’s Digital Kent team, launched in 2021 as part of the Helping Hands scheme, has already allocated £5 million to fight digital exclusion. They manage projects aimed at getting Kent residents online with free advice and support.
- Helping Hands scheme: £2.5 million
- Contain Outbreak Management Fund: £2.5 million
To see if you qualify for a broadband social tariff or find more help with cost of living, visit www.kent.gov.uk/socialtariffs and www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/cost-of-living-support.
