Virgin Media cuts broadband package price for vulnerable households as cost-of-living crisis hits

Virgin Media has cut the price of its broadband packages for the most financially vulnerable households in an attempt to help tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

The major telecoms company confirmed that its Essential Broadband package, aimed at those on Universal Credit, will drop down to £12.50 a month for all customers, both new and existing. The package, which offers speeds of 15Mbps, will be joined by a new offering, Essential Broadband Plus, with faster 50Mbps broadband for £20 a month. Both plans have no fixed-term contract or activation fee.

Earlier this year, the Government introduced new plans to encourage "social tariffs" for low-income households, allowing service providers to verify whether customers are receiving benefits and eligible for extra support. Virgin Media 02 was one of the first firms to support the scheme, offering the Essential Broadband package and waiving termination fees for people moving from existing, more expensive, tariffs.

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Virgin Media chief operating officer Jeff Dodds said: “We have a long history of stepping up in tough times and now is no different. Connectivity remains an essential part of our lives, so we are boosting the support we provide to those who need it most in the cost-of-living crisis.

“We’re taking steps to increase awareness of our social broadband plans, while making it easier to sign up, and are calling on the Government to cut VAT on social tariffs which we will directly pass on, helping those struggling most to save even more. Through continued network investment and a range of products at different price points and speeds, we consistently provide incredible value to customers and will keep playing our part in this challenging climate.”

Virgin Media confirmed earlier this year that it was working to implement automated eligibility checks, and would be expanding its social tariff schemes to also apply to those receiving pension credit and other benefits for the first time.

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