Ofcom has once again criticized UK operators for keeping their customers in the dark, this time over the availability of so-called social broadband tariffs. The regulator's latest figures suggest the take-up rate has been only 5.1% of those eligible, or 220,000 households, with 53% of people receiving benefits unaware of the existence of reduced rates.
Social tariffs are offered by 20 UK broadband providers on a voluntary basis, as Ofcom cannot mandate them without being directed by the government. They offer reduced rates – as low as £12 (US$15) per month – to customers on a range of benefits, with households saving £202 ($252) annually on average, according to the regulator. Lack of awareness has, however, hampered uptake.
Ofcom says it has asked providers "to review their social tariff webpages as a matter of urgency, to ensure the information is accurate, clear and understandable for consumers, and highlights all the protections offered by social tariffs."