Futures

Rising Living Costs Lead to One Million Broadband Cancellations in the UK, (from page 20230521.)

External link

Keywords

Themes

Other

Summary

A Citizens Advice survey reveals that up to one million people have canceled their broadband due to rising living costs. Many could benefit from low-cost social tariffs, yet 4.3 million eligible individuals are not utilizing these options. Ofcom reports that only 5% of those eligible are taking advantage, despite government efforts to promote these tariffs. Citizens Advice highlights that individuals on universal credit are six times more likely to cancel broadband, exacerbating issues in accessing essential services like job applications and healthcare. Campaigners call for more effective promotion of social tariffs to ensure digital inclusion for all households.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Decline in Broadband Subscriptions One million people cancelled their broadband due to high living costs. A shift from widespread broadband access to increased disconnections among low-income households. In a decade, internet access may become a privilege, with significant digital divides emerging. Rising living costs and insufficient awareness of affordable broadband options. 4
Low Uptake of Social Tariffs Only about 5% of eligible individuals are using social tariffs for broadband. A change from low awareness of social tariffs to potential advocacy for widespread adoption. In ten years, social tariffs may become a standard offering, ensuring basic connectivity for low-income users. Increased advocacy from organizations and government for affordable internet access. 5
Digital Inequality Households without broadband face greater challenges in job applications and accessing services. A shift from equitable internet access to a more divided population based on income. In ten years, digital skills and job opportunities may significantly favor those with consistent internet access. The essential nature of the internet for daily life and job market participation. 4
Government and Industry Collaboration The government works with Ofcom and providers to promote social tariffs. A change from minimal government involvement to active promotion of affordable internet services. In a decade, government policies may ensure all citizens have access to affordable broadband. The recognition of internet access as a vital utility for modern living. 3
Increased Awareness of Digital Poverty Campaigns highlight the importance of internet access for low-income individuals. A shift from ignorance of digital poverty to recognition as a critical issue. In ten years, digital poverty may lead to dedicated policies and programs to bridge the digital divide. Rising advocacy for equity in internet access and its implications for society. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Digital Exclusion Growing number of households unable to afford broadband, leading to increased digital inequality. 4
Ineffectiveness of Social Tariffs Low uptake of available social tariffs indicates failure to address affordability issues for many residents. 5
Impact on Job Seeking and Services Access Access to essential online services like job applications and health services significantly hindered for those without broadband. 4
Government and Industry Accountability Concerns over the effectiveness of government and telecom companies in promoting affordable broadband options. 4
Financial Strain on Vulnerable Populations Higher likelihood of low-income families experiencing disconnection from vital communication services due to rising living costs. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Disconnection from Broadband Services An increasing number of individuals are canceling their broadband subscriptions due to rising living costs, highlighting the impact of economic strain on digital accessibility. 5
Low Awareness of Social Tariffs Despite the availability of social tariffs, many eligible individuals are unaware or unable to take advantage of these low-cost broadband options. 4
Increased Reliance on Libraries and Job Centres With many unable to afford home internet, individuals are relying on public facilities like libraries and job centres for online access, impacting their job applications and service access. 4
Digital Inequality Exacerbation The gap between those who can afford internet access and those who cannot is widening, raising concerns about digital inclusion and access to essential services. 5
Advocacy for Improved Promotion of Social Tariffs There is a growing call for broadband providers to better promote social tariffs to ensure more people are aware and can benefit from them. 4
Government and Industry Collaboration The government and broadband providers are increasingly collaborating to create and promote affordable internet options for low-income households. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Social Tariffs for Broadband Low-cost broadband packages designed for low-income households to ensure digital access and inclusion. 4
Broadband Eligibility Checker A tool to simplify the process for benefit claimants to sign up for available social tariffs. 5
Digital Inclusion Initiatives Programs aimed at ensuring all households have access to essential digital services, especially in low-income areas. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Digital Divide The growing gap in internet access between low-income households and those who can afford broadband services. 5
Underutilization of Social Tariffs Despite availability, very few eligible individuals are taking advantage of social tariffs for broadband, exacerbating digital exclusion. 4
Impact of Cost of Living on Connectivity Rising living costs lead to significant disconnections from essential services like broadband, affecting job search and access to information. 5
Digital Poverty Even affordable options like social tariffs may not be sufficient for households in severe poverty, limiting their access to essential online services. 4
Role of Government and Industry Collaboration The necessity for stronger efforts from government and telecom companies to promote and facilitate access to affordable broadband solutions. 4