Sky has become the first national broadband provider to join an initiative making it easier for people who claim benefits to get discounted tariffs. Switching to a "social tariff" could save claimants up to £180 a year, the DWP says.
The scheme gives automatic verification - meaning claimants do not have to repeatedly prove their benefit claim status to access discounted broadband and mobile tariffs. It was introduced last summer and lets internet service providers – with claimants’ permission – to ask the DWP to automatically verify their customers’ benefit entitlement.
It means customers do not need to actively prove they claim benefits while on a tariff designed for those on low incomes, as they did previously. Before the new system was introduced, people were regularly required to verify their entitlement to providers with Jobcentre letters or screenshots of their Universal Credit account.
Minister for Social Mobility, Youth and Progression Mims Davies said: "It’s positive to see a major provider, such as Sky, sign up to our scheme, making it easier for families to access cheaper broadband and mobile tariffs in difficult times, and I call on other providers to follow suit in offering this type of tariff for those in need. Claimants who think they might be eligible for one of these tariffs, should contact their provider."
Stephen van Rooyen, Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer, Sky, UK & Europe, said: "We know how important connectivity is to our customers, which is why we are focussed on ways we can support them to say online. As well as support with bills, we also provide existing, eligible customers with a broadband and mobile social tariff, helping them stay connected for a significantly reduced cost.
"The Department for Work and Pensions eligibility tool is a useful step forward, enabling us to more easily confirm eligibility.
The DWP says Sky and its subsidiary brand NOW are among a "growing list of providers" joining the initiative. WightFibre on the Isle of Wight has already signed up to the scheme. A full list of options on offer from broadband providers is available on Ofcom’s website.
