A woman has shared a little known tariff which means Sky customers could reduce their bills. Called the Sky Broadband Social Tariff, it provides the internet at a reduced rate.
One mum decided to share details of it in the popular Family Lowdown Tips & Ideas Facebook group after it saved her almost £200 a year.
"Apparently up to 4 million households are able to do this but only 500,000 know about it. So I thought I would share to help others facing the cost of living crisis," she said.
"If you are in receipt of Universal Credit and struggling to pay your bills, you may be able to reduce your bills by asking to be placed onto a social tariff. I've managed to get my Sky Broadband bill down from £35 per month to £20 a month. Saving £180 a year!"
Sky's website explains: "You (the Sky account holder) need to be claiming Universal Credit or Pension Credit and be named on the Universal or Pension Credit monthly statement to qualify for Sky Broadband Basics. We’ll ask you for your National Insurance number so than we can check you’re eligible - have it to hand when you get in touch.
"It is only available to customers who already have Sky Broadband with us, but you’ll need to get in touch to move to Sky Broadband Basics."
Hundreds of people commented on the mum's post with some saying they too had saved money by switching to it or choosing a similar tariff with a different provider.
Others hit out at the cost of broadband when 'it's essential in this day and age', while some criticised the fact the tariff is limited to those on Universal or Pension Credit and not for those on other benefits or not in receipt of benefits at all.
"t's not just people on Universal Credit that struggle to pay their bills," said one. "If for example someone earns just over the benefit cap say by £100, they don't get help with anything! So I pay for my glasses, my medication and the dentist I don't bother with because who can afford that.
"What I'm trying to say is I'm really fed up with hearing about all the help people on Universal Credit get, what about those that work their a***s off for a £100 more - what do they get, nothing."
You can find out more about switching to the tariff here.
Are you struggling to pay for broadband and TV packages? Have you cancelled your subscription to save money? Let us know in the comments here.
To keep on top of the news and events for families in Manchester, sign up to the Manchester Family newsletter here.
