Justina Miltienyte, Head of Policy at Uswitch.com, comments: “Communication services are essential to daily life, so this coordinated response from providers and the Government shows the telecoms industry is taking proactive action to safeguard customers who may find themselves struggling.
“Allowing mobile and broadband customers who are unable to afford their bills to move onto a cheaper tariff - without paying an exit fee - is a supportive and sensible measure.
“In addition, offering manageable payment plans will be helpful for some but it’s also important for providers to let consumers know they can easily reach out for help.
“Increasing awareness of social tariffs is long overdue, as two thirds of those eligible for the deals were unaware it was an option for them[1]. The news that more providers could be set to introduce these tariffs to the financially vulnerable is welcome.
“While not everyone will be eligible for a social broadband or mobile tariff, the good news is that deals for new customers remain competitively priced - so if you’re out of contract it’s a good time to shop around.”
Notes
Uswitch consumer research https://www.uswitch.com/media-centre/2021/11/broadband-tariffs-for-financially-vulnerable/
About Uswitch
Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles.
More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.
Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings.
Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.
