The price of everything is rising, forcing people to make hard choices. A recent report from the BBC found that many of us can no longer afford to pay for food, heating, utilities, and a monthly broadband connection.
Some broadband packages linked to inflation have seen mid-contract increases as high as 11%. And these price hikes have hit the financially vulnerable the hardest.
7% of low earners are now in arrears on their internet bills, owing an average of £171 each. And with further price rises likely, the financial situation for millions of UK households is not looking good.
Lewa and her family have already cut back on food and data to make their income last through the month. Speaking to the BBC, Lewa said:
“Financially, everything has become really hard. I’m struggling with three kids, all at different stages. I have to share internet with my neighbour to save money. My son does all his homework at the library because we don’t always have the internet at home.”
Hafsha Dadabhai Shaikh, who works to help people access free data, explains how Lewa’s situation is far from uncommon:
“So many people out there are making those choices between ‘do I have enough money to feed myself and my family this month?…and do I have enough money left over to put in the kitty to buy some data’?”
And it shouldn’t be this way, continues Hafsha:
“Data and broadband are vital now. “Families have to go online to see their GPs, order prescriptions, manage finances, and get the best deals from supermarkets.”
Culture secretary Nadine Dorries wants big broadband providers to introduce measures to tackle rising tariffs. As of yet, few have taken any serious action.
Broadband provider 6Ginternet understands that reliable and accessible internet is no longer a luxury. Instead, it’s a necessity.
So while everyone else is talking about how to lower prices and help ordinary people, 6Ginternet continues to give away a large portion of its network coverage to schools, charities, local authorities, and other organisations.
It’s called the “Internet for Everyone Campaign,’ and it ensures that everyone can use the internet, whenever they need it.
“Working with 6Ginternet means we can help older people get connected free of charge,” says an Age UK Blackburn spokesperson. “This allows them to experience the many benefits of digital technology, such as keeping in touch with friends and family, shopping online, and using health services online.”
6Ginternet: an independent broadband provider putting people before its profits.
For more information on the Internet for Everyone Campaign, visit 6Gintenet.com. And if you’re part of an organisation that could benefit from free broadband, call 6Ginternet 0800 246 6767.