The UK government’s ambitious project to expand fibre broadband coverage across the entire country is in full swing, with new data showcasing the regions leading the charge.
New data reveals fibre broadband coverage is making significant progress, with several regions surging ahead in providing ultra-fast internet access to their residents.
According to an interactive map published by the Express, fibre internet has now reached 80% coverage across the UK, marking a crucial milestone in the government’s project.
Can you already get superfast broadband in your area?
The UK government’s goal is to achieve 100% coverage of gigabit-capable broadband by the end of 2025. This initiative aims to ensure that businesses and households across the country can access high-speed internet, fostering economic growth and bridging the digital divide.
But some regions in the UK have fallen behind in the race to provide fibre broadband, including the North West.
Surprisingly many national Internet Service Providers (ISPs) do not provide fibre broadband to all areas in all towns in the North West.
In many areas like Blackburn, Burnley, Bolton and Blackpool national suppliers do not provide fibre broadband. 6G internet use fixed wireless technology to deliver fibre speed broadband to homes in our ever expanding network.
6G Internet superfast broadband is coming to Bolton, Burnley & Blackpool!
The North West has a long way to go before it catches up with many other parts of the UK. Towns like Bolton, Burnley, and Blackpool are still fibre poor, with less than half of residents having access to a fibre-ready connection.
Give us your postcode & house number & we will tell you the options available at your premises! Our superfast fixed wireless network is expanding chance is we can get you set up today!
But 6G Internet is changing that!
We’re building and maintaining fixed wireless networks in towns and cities across the North West. We’ve connected thousands of people in Blackburn, Darwen, Accrington, Padiham and Burnley to super fast, affordable, and reliable fixed wireless superfast broadband.
And with more networks planned and on the way, it won’t be long before everyone across the North West can benefit from 6G internet fibre-powered fixed wireless internet.
“Fibre broadband is not just a service; it’s a game-changer,” says Tara Murray – Product Manager for 6G Internet. “It opens up a world of possibilities, connecting people in ways that were once impossible.”
“At 6G Internet, we believe everyone deserves access to fast, high speed superfast reliable internet, and that’s why we’re building new fixed wireless networks to connect people and transform the way they live, work, and communicate for the better. The networks we build will ensure nobody gets left behind during the UK’s digital revolution.”
Check you are getting the broadband speed you are paying for!
Whether working from home, streaming movies, or gaming online, a reliable and fast internet connection is essential. But not all broadband services are created equal. It’s important to understand the different types of broadband speeds you need and how to check your connection to ensure you’re getting the best possible service.
Let’s talk about broadband speeds
The speed of your broadband connection is measured in megabits per second or Mbps. This refers to how quickly data can be downloaded or uploaded from the router in your house the speed at your computer or device will depend on how you set up your local area network (LAN)
Broadband usage at home
For light usage, such as browsing the web and checking email, a speed of around 10Mbps is sufficient. For streaming HD videos and online gaming, a speed of around 50Mbps is recommended. For downloading large files, uninterrupted homeworking, and streaming 4K videos, a speed of 100Mbps is ideal.
Connect more devices with a WiFi 6 router
You’ll also need a higher Mbps if several devices are connected to the network. This prevents lag, jitter, and annoying buffering, meaning everyone in the house can enjoy a smooth, seamless internet experience at the same time.
Making sure you’re getting the right broadband speed
Several online tools can help you determine the speed of your connection. One of the most popular and reliable tools is the Google broadband speed checker. It’s free to use and accurately measures your download and upload speeds.
It’s also super simple!
Use this Broadband Speed Test from Google, then click the run speed test. You’ll get results within a few seconds. They include download speed, upload speed, and response time. These measurements will help you determine if your connection is performing as it should be and that you’re getting the speeds you pay for.
Run the test a few times at different points of the day to get an accurate overview of speeds and network performance.
Why is my internet so slow?
Several factors can impact your internet speeds and connection. Thankfully, many of them can be sorted out with a quick and easy fix.
One common issue is the distance between devices and the router. The further away you are from the router, the weaker your connection will be.
Other factors that could impact your broadband speed include network congestion, interference from other devices, and obstacles, such as concrete reinforced walls and even fish tanks.
What else can I do to improve slow broadband speeds?
Firstly, try restarting your router. This can often help to refresh your connection and improve speeds. However, avoid switching off your router overnight. This is when providers send out updates. If you miss these, your network performance will degrade and slow down.
Try moving your router to a different location or upgrading to a higher-speed broadband package. You could also consider investing in a signal booster or Mesh system to improve your signal strength.
The right speeds for every customer
Broadband speeds are an essential consideration when choosing an internet service provider. With so many different options available, it’s important to understand your individual needs and select a package that meets them.
6G Internet has a package to suit everyone – and always for a very affordable price.
At 6G Internet, we understand the importance of keeping things simple, transparent, and, most importantly, fair for our customers. This is why we’re proud to introduce our no mid-contract price rise guarantee.
In a world where unexpected price hikes have become an unfortunate norm, we stand by our commitment to providing the best possible broadband service without subjecting you to any unpleasant surprises.
In this blog, we’ll explore the issue of mid-contract price rises and explain why 6G Internet has chosen to do things differently.
Mid-Contract Broadband Price Rises Explained
Broadband companies usually offer contracts ranging from 12 to 24 months, with the monthly cost fixed for the entire contract duration.
But some companies incorporate sneaky clauses in their contracts that allow them to increase the price during the contract term, which is known as a mid-contract price rise.
These price hikes are often linked to inflation or other market factors, and they can significantly affect customers’ monthly bills.
Why Other Broadband suppliers Raise Prices Mid-Contract
There are several reasons why broadband companies raise their customer’s bills mid-contract:
Inflation: As the cost of living and doing business increases, companies may decide to pass on these additional costs to their customers to protect their profit margins.
Market competition: Companies may initially offer lower prices to attract customers, only to increase them later once they have secured a customer base.
Increased operational costs: Some companies might face unexpected expenses, such as network upgrades or infrastructure maintenance, and decide to recoup these costs by raising prices.
Broadband Companies Known for Mid-Contract Price Rises
Many well-known broadband providers put price rise clauses into their contracts, including major players like BT, Virgin Media, and Sky. These increases can vary in amount, but they typically range from 1% to 5% per year, depending on the provider and the contract terms.
For a customer paying £40 per month, a 5% increase would translate to an additional £2 per month or £24 per year. This may not seem significant, but these increases can add up over time, especially for customers on tight budgets.
And much larger price rises are incoming. BT, EE, Plusnet, Sky, TalkTalk and Three have all announced an April price increase. According to money-saving expert Martin Lewis, some of their customers will soon start paying 13% more for their broadband.
6G Internet’s No Mid-Contract Price Rise Guarantee
At 6G Internet, we believe in putting our customers first – and treating them fairly.
Our no mid-contract price rise guarantee ensures that the price you sign up for is the price you’ll pay for the entire duration of your contract.
We will never hit our customers with unexpected price hikes that can strain their budgets.
We recognize that it is not fair or the right thing to do. Instead, we focus on offering competitive and very affordable prices from the outset and maintaining our high-quality broadband service without the need for hidden fees or unexpected increases.
A promise to our customers
The no mid-contract price rise guarantee is a promise to all our customers. By eliminating the uncertainty of mid-contract price increases, we’re offering them peace of mind in an industry riddled with surprise charges, hidden fees, and rising bills
A consumer champion journalist has revealed the painstaking process of haggling for a better broadband deal with one of the UK’s biggest providers.
Chris Harper, who writes money-saving advice for leading online news outlets, knocked £13 off his broadband bill. But it wasn’t a smooth or pleasant experience.
Here’s his story:
“I’ve been a loyal customer with this company for years, but with the inflation-linked increase, I’d be paying a staggering £43 a month.”
So Chris contacted the provider, which is one of the biggest names in the UK broadband industry.
“I spoke to a lovely Scottish man,” continued Chris. “I told him about the competitor’s prices and asked if they could offer me a cheaper rate.”
The lovely Scottish man said no; Chris was locked into a deal. There was nothing he could do
“I’d been warned about this sneaky tactic on Twitter,” said Chris. “So I told the advisor my only option was to walk away.”
That did the trick.
“All of a sudden, there was another way I could get a cheaper bill…!” said Chris.
Chris spent the rest of the hour-long call being transferred between departments, waiting on hold, and explaining his situation all over again. But he eventually got the better deal he was looking for, cutting his bill from £43 per month to just £29.99 per month.
Brilliant, thought Chris.
Then this happened
“They said I’d have to send back my old router, only for them to send me the same one back!” said Chris. “Then I’d have to change my WiFi password and set up all my devices again.”
For Chris, reducing his bill was a minor inconvenience. But the experience made him realise that many others might be reluctant to negotiate with broadband providers.
“People could be either too scared or not confident enough to ring up these companies and ask for a better deal,” wrote Chris. “There were lots of ridiculous hoops I had to jump through. Elderly people or those who aren’t tech-savvy could find it intimidating, resulting in them not even bothering and being forced to pay hundreds more on their bills.”
Things like this don’t happen when you’re a 6G Internet customer. Our customers never have to call up and haggle over mid-contract price rises, because we never raise their bills mid-contract.
And when you do make the 6G Internet switch, we visit your home, set up a brand-new router, and make sure all your devices are connected and running smoothly.
6G Internet: fair prices, no mid-contract surprises, and real customer service.
Broadband companies must do more to keep financially vulnerable people connected to the internet, say industry experts.
Rocio Concha, from consumer group Which?, urged the government to take actions that would encourage people on benefits to sign up for social tariff broadband deals. Social tariffs are cheaper broadband packages for those claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and other benefits.
Ms Concha highlighted that while cheaper social tariffs are available for most benefit claimants, only 3.2% of those who qualify are using them. Most people, it seems, are not aware that they exist.
She also suggested that broadband data should be exempt from VAT tax, like other essential utilities, including water and energy.
“Access to the internet is an essential utility in today’s world, as important as having access to water, gas, and electricity,” said Ms Concha
Cutting VAT on broadband would be relatively inexpensive compared to the long-term benefits, argued Ms Concha. A report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research found that cutting VAT on broadband would cost the government around £1.4 billion, but reducing digital exclusion in key and vulnerable groups could stimulate £13.7billion in economic activity during the next decade.
Financially vulnerable individuals should also be allowed to switch contracts without incurring expensive exit fees, said Ms Concha. Furthermore, she believes they should be exempt from upcoming broadband bill increases, which could be as high as 17% for some consumers.
The government responded by calling on firms to raise awareness of the social tariff deals. It’s yet to make any statement on cutting VAT for internet data.
Science Minister and digital committee member Michelle Donelan said that telecom bosses should reconsider the price rises. However, it’s highly unlikely that any of the upcoming price increases will be reversed.
Price rises are something that 6G Internet members never have to worry about. Our no-price rise promise means your broadband bill will never go up mid-contract.
If you don’t want to pay more than you agree to, click here to learn more about becoming a 6G Internet customer.
In today’s digital age, the internet is part of our daily lives. From accessing essential services to staying connected with friends and family, it’s a crucial tool for people of all ages and backgrounds.
But for many people in the UK, internet access is not affordable or accessible, leading to digital exclusion and poorer economic outcomes.
Digital exclusion in the UK
Free internet access is critical to reducing digital exclusion in the UK. Digital exclusion refers to the gap between those with access to digital technology and those without access.
Studies have shown that a lack of internet access is linked to fewer economic outcomes. For example, people who can’t get online struggle to access job opportunities, education, and other critical services, including income support and other benefits.
Digital exclusion can also lead to social isolation and poorer health outcomes, including an increased likelihood of developing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Some studies have linked digital exclusion to shorter life expectancy.
The impact of digital exclusion
Here are some statistics to illustrate the impact of digital exclusion in the UK:
According to a 2020 report by Ofcom, around 1.5 million households in the UK do not have access to the internet.
In a survey conducted by the Good Things Foundation, 22% of respondents said they had been unable to access a service they needed because they did not have internet.
A 2021 report by the Centre for Social Justice found that 4.5 million adults in the UK lack basic digital skills.
According to a report by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, people without internet access are more likely to be unemployed, live in poverty, and have lower levels of education.
Digital exclusion and the rising cost of living
The rising cost of living in the UK is making it increasingly difficult for people to afford internet access.
According to telecoms regulator Ofcom, more than 9.1 million UK households (32%) are having difficulties paying their broadband bills.
Around 17% of households are cutting back on other essential spending, such as food and clothing, to afford broadband services; that’s four times the percentage of people doing so in June 2021.
Helen Milner is the chief executive of The Good Things Foundation, a UK-based charity that promotes digital inclusion
“Over one in 20 households have no internet at all, either fixed line or mobile,” said Helen Milner. “I’ve met a young woman who wept because we gave her a £10 top-up because it meant she could contact her mum in Ireland. She had two young kids and had no other way of contacting their grandmother.”
Why 6G Internet is giving away free broadband
The 6G Internet for everyone campaign is based on the idea that access to the internet is a fundamental human right. We believe everyone should have equal access to the tools and resources they need to thrive in today’s digital world, even when they can’t afford the monthly bills.
Through this important campaign, we give away 20% of our network for free to schools, charities, and community organisations in every town and area we build in.
We’ve provided free internet to Age UK. The charity uses our free connections to run digital skills classes for older people.
Our free broadband connections at the Foxtown Centre in Preston are helping the city’s homeless and vulnerable groups access financial and health services.
And we recently installed free broadband connections in ten homeless pods in Blackburn.
“It’s a great initiative,” said Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council. “It will allow those living in the shelters to get online and access the relevant documents, learn new skills, and send emails to help them on their way to improving their lives.
“Digital exclusion is a new form of social inequality,” says 6G Internet Digital Inclusion Manager Tara Murray. “Those who don’t have access to the internet will be increasingly left behind in education, employment, and society. The internet is not a luxury anymore; it’s a necessity.”
“And that’s why we will always give away free internet. It’s our commitment to bridging the digital divide in local communities, ensuring everyone can access digital spaces and develop the skills and support networks they need to thrive.”
Are you coming to the end of your broadband contract and wondering how long before your broadband contract ends can you switch and what your options are? You’re not alone! In fact, millions of people in the UK are currently paying more than they need to for their broadband package after their contract has expired. But don’t worry; there are plenty of ways to find a better deal and save yourself some cash.
What does out of contract mean?
When your contract ends, you’re out of contract. This means you’re no longer bound to your original contract and are free to either stay with your current provider or switch to a new one.
Unfortunately, many people don’t realise they’re out of contract and continue to pay the same amount they did during the contract period. This often results in paying more than necessary and missing out on great deals from other providers.
Will my broadband provider tell me when I’m out of contract?
Yes! In February 2020, Ofcom introduced new rules that meant providers are now legally obligated to inform customers when their contract term is almost up. At 6G Internet we send you an e-mail 40 days before the end of your broadband contract with us.
The end-of-contract notification for your broadband contract should include the following information.
The date your current contract will finish
How much you’re currently paying each month
What services you’re currently paying for
How much you’ll pay once your contract expires if you stay with your current provider
The best new deals available to both new and existing customers
When will I receive my End of Contract Notification?
Your broadband provider must contact you 10-40 days before your contract is up, giving you an opportunity to shop around for a better or cheaper broadband deal.
How Long Before My Broadband Contract Ends Can I switch?
If you can access our fixed wireless fibre speed 6G Internet network you can arrange installation instantly. We can install and be ready to switch as soon as your contract ends. This means you will have no delay in switching broadband suppliers.
We are building our fixed wireless fibre speed network, if we have not quite got to your address you can still sign up with us whilst we expand. We will provide your internet service via your telephone line and swap you onto our fixed wireless network when it is available in your area, without any termination or additional charges.
So what are my options if I’m out of contract with my broadband supplier?
Now you know what to expect from your provider when your contract ends, it’s time to consider your options.
Stay with your current broadband provider
You can let the contract roll on and carry on with your current provider.
This is the easy option, but it’s also the most expensive – at least in the long run. Research by Which? found that loyalty to broadband companies doesn’t pay. Customers who stick with the same service provider end up paying significantly more than new customers for the same download speeds.
Switch broadband provider
The second option is to switch broadband provider. Here are a few things you need to consider when browsing for a better deal.
Speed
Broadband speed is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing to switch broadband provider to a new provider. An internet speed of 25Mbps is considered good, although larger households where multiple people are online simultaneously may require 75Mbps.
Data Allowance
Consider how much data you need each month and whether the provider offers unlimited data. If you stream lots of movies and TV shows, you may need an unlimited data plan to avoid going over your limit and incurring extra charges, when you switch broadband provider
Price
Price is always a key consideration. Check the monthly cost of the package and whether there are any setup fees or hidden charges to be aware of.
Customer service
Lastly, check the provider’s customer service reputation. Look for reviews and ratings from other customers to ensure that the provider offers good customer support and responds promptly to any issues or concerns.
6G Internet: the smart choice for out-of-contract broadband customers
If you’re an out-of-contract customer looking for a new broadband provider, 6G Internet is a great option. Check to find out which broadband packages are available in your home.
(Tell us your postcode & house number so we can tell you which deals are available!)
We offer fast and affordable broadband with speeds up to 75 Mbps, unlimited data, and guaranteed speeds to the router.
Deals start from under £20 p/m.
There are no zero set-up or line rental costs, and our customer service centre is locally based, so you can always speak to a ‘real’ person when you need help or advice.
End of broadband contract – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch broadband provider before my contract ends?
If you want to change broadband provider before the end of your minimum contract period, you will probably have to pay early termination charges. If you are not getting the download and upload speeds you were promised you can cancel without charges, but you will have to prove the speeds are consistently poor. Check with your current broadband provider whether you will need to pay any charges when you switch.
How early can I switch my broadband provider?
You can switch to a new broadband provider whenever you want to! Almost all broadband suppliers have Minimum term contracts, if you want to exit early most internet service providers will charge an exit fee.
Do I have to cancel my internet before switching broadband provider?
It depends on the technology your existing and new broadband provider uses to deliver your broadband connection. If your property has fibre to the property (FTTP) through a direct connection, switching should be quick and easy. If your property has fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) then you will have to wait for service to switch over. If you are switching to a fibre speed fixed wireless connection you can get installed and connected before you cancel your current contract.
How much notice do I have to give to switch broadband provider?
How much notice do I need to give my current provider? For most internet service providers, you’ll need to give at least 30 days’ notice. You can do this via email or by phone.
Are broadband contracts legally binding?
Yes, your broadband contract is a legal agreement binding you and your internet service provider together for an agreed fixed term, usually 24 months.
Can I have 2 broadband providers?
Technically, there is no reason why you can’t have multiple broadband connections within the same house. However, you may need to pay to have another line installed. This is because many broadband plans, even from different ISPs, use the same infrastructure. Unless you opt for a fixed wireless connection where your broadband provider will own and operate their own network.
Ofcom, the UK’s telecoms regulator, is launching an investigation into the mid-contract price increases by major broadband providers, following their recent announcements of even more rate hikes.
The investigation aims to address the lack of clarity and certainty around what customers will pay and could potentially provide assistance to those struggling with the cost of living crisis.
Although contracts typically last for 18 or 24 months, companies such as BT, Sky, and Virgin Media O2 include causes permitting them to increase monthly bills in line with inflation.
Ofcom’s research reveals that a third of UK broadband customers are unaware of this clause in their contracts.
The cost of broadband in the UK ranges from £22.99 to £55 per month. When the next round of price hikes hits this April, UK broadband customers can expect to pay an extra £3.31-£7.92 for their internet per month, adding £39.72 to £95.04 to their annual bill.
Virgin Media O2 and BT customers could see the biggest rises; their bills are expected to increase by 13.8% and 14.4%, respectively. Sky customers may end up paying 8.1% per month after April.
Cristina Luna-Esteban, the director of telecoms consumer protection at Ofcom, believes big-name providers are making it difficult for customers to understand the extent of price increases.
The Ofcom review will focus on what customers know when they sign up for new broadband contracts and how providers communicate price rise clauses.
“We’re taking a thorough look at these types of contract terms to fully understand the extent to which customers truly know what they’re signing up to and whether tougher protections are needed,” said Cristina Luna-Esteban. “Customers need certainty and clarity about what they will pay over the course of their contract.”
In the meantime, Ofcom encourages customers out of contract to consider haggling with their current provider for a cheaper deal or switching providers.
Those looking to switch will be interested in a broadband firm that never raises customer bills mid-contract, just like 6G Internet.
Popular money-saving expert Martin Lewis is advising broadband customers to haggle for better deals when their bills go up this spring.
Money Saving Expert Warns Consumers About Broadband Price Increases
The consumer champion has previously warned people to expect a 15% increase in their broadband bills from April, explaining how big providers keep their tariffs in line with the consumer price index (CPI) rate of inflation. Inflation is currently around 11%, and Lewis believes firms will add an extra 4% on top.
April Broadband Price Increases
“This usually happens in April for most of the major broadband providers, which will be another hit for many people,” said Lewis. “If you’re paying £40, you should get ready to see another £6 on your bill from April.”
Lewis urges consumers to call their provider and haggle for a better deal. A poll on the MoneySavingExpert site found that 8 out of 10 customers can reduce their bill by calling their provider and suggesting they might go elsewhere.
“As a loyal customer, the first thing I would do is get on the phone and say: I’ve seen what you’re charging new customers; what can you do for me?” said Lewis.
“I’d make sure you’ve seen what other providers are charging in your area, because it’s postcode dependent… and say, ‘I’m not willing to pay that amount; can you offer me a better deal?’
If the provider isn’t willing to budge on price, then Lewis advises people to switch.
“Switching isn’t complicated, so don’t worry about it too much,” said Lewis. “It’s your new firm who sorts it out for you, and they’ll cancel your old provider.”
If you’re one of those people ready for something better, then contact 6G Internet today. We’ll make sure the switchover is as smooth as possible.
And with our no-price rise promise, your broadband bill will never go up during the contract.
Broadband plays a central role in our daily lives, providing us with the connections we need to work, play, and stay in touch with loved ones.
But it’s no secret that customer service in the industry can often be lacking, leaving many people frustrated and unhappy with their providers.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the state of customer service in the UK broadband industry, exploring the most common complaints, the reasons behind these issues, and what 6G Internet is doing to keep our customers happy.
The state of customer service in the UK broadband industry
According to Ofcom’s latest reports, the number of complaints about broadband providers has been increasing in recent years.
Ofcom report shows complaints increased by 23%
In 2020, the number of complaints about broadband services increased by 23% compared to the previous year, and that figure has been rising ever since.
It’s important to state that these complaints represent a fraction of the total number of broadband customers in the UK. However, they still indicate a significant level of dissatisfaction with the service provided by some broadband providers.
What are people complaining about?
Here’s a look at some of the most common customer service complaints when it comes to broadband contracts:
Slow speeds
Outages
Billing issues
Installation problems
Data caps
Hidden fees
Poor customer service
Poor customer service
Another major issue is poor customer service. Customers often report dissatisfaction with the service they receive, including long wait times on hold, unhelpful representatives, issues not being resolved in a timely manner, and automated menus or chatbots that can’t answer specific or complex questions.
Local customer service team
This is one of the main reasons why 6G Internet decided to keep our customer service centre local. And it’s staffed by real people you can actually talk to.
The benefits of real customer service
Thanks to our locally based customer service centre, 6G Internet customers benefit from…
Personalised service: Real human customer service representatives can provide a more personalised customer experience, as they can understand and respond to individual needs and concerns.
Faster resolutions: Our staff can resolve issues more quickly than automated systems, as they can make decisions and take action in real-time.
Language & cultural understanding: A local-based customer service centre allows representatives to be familiar with the local culture, which can help build trust and better communication with customers.
Greater accountability: Companies with local-based customer service centres are more accountable to their customers, as they are physically located in the same area and are more easily accessible.
6G Internet: where customers get ‘real’ service
At 6G Internet, we understand that having a reliable and fast broadband connection is crucial in today’s world. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing the best possible service to our customers.
One big thing that sets us apart from other broadband providers is our locally-based customer service centre.
Our team of friendly and knowledgeable representatives are available to assist you with any questions or issues you may have, and they’re located right in your community.
And you’ll never have to deal with long wait times on hold or automated systems.
We believe that real people are the key to providing excellent customer service. Our representatives are trained to handle a wide range of issues and to find the best solution for each customer. Whether you need help with a technical problem or have a question about your bill, our team is here to help.
