UNIVERSAL credit claimant Rose Mulvey is one of the millions of people who have significantly reduced their broadband bills and saved hundreds of pounds.
Like millions of people across the UK, Rose is subject to so-called social broadband tariffs.
These are cheaper broadband and telephony deals that some providers offer people with certain perks is.
But most people are unaware that these deals are available. It is estimated that only 55,000 of her 4.2 million eligible people are taking advantage of the savings.
Sun Money helps governments, regulators Ofcom and suppliers to support struggling customers and make it easy for customers to switch to social tariffsWe are asking you to do more to ensure that
The Sun wants more businesses to offer deals and make them available online to their customers.
Rose, 31, from Exeter, used to be a doctor at the local hospital, but after she was diagnosed with an illness, she quit her job to work for Universal. Had to go to her credits . She has chronic fatigue syndrome.
She needs the Internet to keep in touch with her family and friends when she cannot leave her home.
But when The Sun told her she was eligible for a cheap broadband deal, she couldn't believe it.
Rose said:
She pays £23.99 a month for Shell Energy Broadband services.
Her provider does not offer social rates, but switching to BT's social rates would cut her monthly fee to £15, saving her £108 a year.
"That's a lot," she said.
``I have caregivers at home, and when I leave the house in a wheelchair, I have to pay a taxi fare.
She said providers should publicize deals so people like her don't miss them. said:
How to find the social tariff?
How you apply for social tariffs depends on your provider.
BT and Virgin could sign up online, but Sky and Nowneed to call .
The deals offered also vary, including available prices and speeds. Some providers require you to be an existing customer to qualify.
TalkTalk offers six months of free broadband to people on Job Seekers Allowance.
BT and Virgin Media charge a social tariff of just £15 a month, but the latter is her 30-day rolling contract, so she's not bound.
Broadband is now also charged for a rolling contract - £20 per month.
Sky costs £20 per month - the contract is for her 18 months, so you may have to pay an exit fee to leave early.
Use comparison websites such as Moneysupermarket.com and her Uswitch before signing up for a social rate and pay more elsewhere. See if you can get a good deal.
There are alsosimple toolsto help you see what you can save by using social tariffs- The Sun is Nous, cost of living champion We worked with you to create an easy way for households to save money. Check if you are eligible. Visit
nous.co/thesun to see if you qualify for cheap broadband in just 2 minutes.
Are they subject to social tariffs?
Some companies cannot easily find deals on their websites and who can get them?
In most cases, you will be required to provide proof of the benefits you are redeeming.
Most providers offering social tariffs require one of:
- Universal Credit
- Employment and Assistance Allowance
- Guaranteed Credit Element Pension Credit
- Income Assistance
- Job Applicant Benefits
Share basic information about your household and ask your bank for permission to share details of your broadband spending and whether you are receiving benefits. must give.
Another advantage of social rates is that you know exactly what you'll be charged, as providers promise not to raise rates mid-contract.
Read here to learn about single mother Gina her Hackettand what she has been able to save by using a little-known social burden.
