Call for action over cost of broadband

Low-income families are missing out on key services during the coronavirus lockdown because of broadband costs, according to Citizens Advice.

The charity says a poll has found more than one in six households are struggling to afford broadband during the third lockdown – and that the poorest are missing out on access to key services.

It says efforts to provide vulnerable children with internet access and laptops to continue learning from home is "just a sticking plaster" to the wider digital divide problem.

According to the charity, only three of the largest 13 broadband providers have launched affordable tariffs for those on low-income benefits.

It argues that broadband is an essential utility, not a luxury, and wants the Government and Ofcom to make it compulsory for all providers to offer cheaper plans to people struggling financially.

Alistair Cromwell, acting chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: "The pandemic has cemented the fact that broadband is an essential utility. It is not a luxury for those who can afford it.

"Without broadband we struggle to teach our children, order food and medicines, work or search for a job.

"While the Government has provided free laptops and mobile data to help children study at home, these are ultimately just a sticking plaster.

"To tackle the digital divide, it must take urgent action to ensure everyone can afford their broadband, no matter which provider they are with."