Millions of families under pressure from the rising cost of living are missing out on savings on their utility and broadband bills that could make a big difference. Research shows that savings of up to £144 a year for broadband alone are being left on the table. This is money that can help people to stay connected, an essential part of the way we live, work and learn.
Lack of awareness of the support available for families is a problem. Research from Ofwat suggests that only 15% of people knew about affordability support and similar research by National Energy Action puts that figure at just 8%.
As well as unclaimed benefits of around £15 billion a year, there is a complex and evolving network of other support available for people who need it. Frontline advisors need the latest information about social tariffs so they can help customers on their income maximisation journeys.
Listen back to hear
- The impact of rising living costs on low income families
- Support available for people who are struggling with digital connectivity and energy costs
- Practical tools that can help now
With guest speakers Daniella Weduwer, Policy Manager, Energy UK and Emma Stone, Director of Evidence and Engagement, Good Things Foundation
View the webinar
Data poverty is when individuals, households or communities cannot afford sufficient, private and secure mobile or broadband data to meet their essential needs. The root cause of data poverty is poverty. Among working-age adults, those in the lowest socioeconomic groups are more than three times as likely as those in the highest socio-economic groups to not use the internet.
Without further UK Government support, the household energy price cap is estimated to rise again in October, to between £2,500 to £3,000. Such a rise could double the number of households in fuel poverty and put further pressures on business customers. Supporting vulnerable customers is also about helping them use less energy - the cheapest form of energy is the one we do not use.