One million lose broadband access as cost-of-living crisis bites

Our latest findings show up to one million people may have cancelled their broadband internet as they can no longer afford it.

A million people in the UK were disconnected their broadband in the last year because they couldn’t afford it. People on Universal Credit were more than six times as likely to have disconnected compared to non-claimants.

People on Universal Credit would’ve been eligible for discounted broadband social tariffs, however there are still big gaps around awareness and access. We’re worried this increasingly essential service is becoming out of reach for many.

People claiming Universal Credit are still more than four times more likely to be behind on broadband bills than those who aren’t. The latest figures from Ofcom show 95% of the 4.3 million households eligible for social tariffs are missing out on saving £200 on broadband costs each year. That is £824 million of support going unclaimed.

As 63 year old Rob*, who has been unable to afford internet access, told us “‘Not having the internet affects me enormously; from not being able to apply for jobs,to my social life and my mental health, because I feel very isolated.’

Over the past 13 years, he’s only had internet access for the last 10 months, after he received a free prepaid service from his local council. This is due to run out in July and will not be extended.

Rob said he hadn’t heard of social tariffs, he told us: “I didn’t even know it was a thing, but I’ll look into it. I might just be able to afford it if it’s discounted enough.”

*Name changed for confidentiality reasons.