What is the better broadband subsidy scheme?

The Better Broadband Subsidy Scheme is a government initiative aimed at providing homes and businesses with basic broadband with a download speed of at least 2Mbps. It is available to those who will not benefit from the rollout of superfast broadband - mainly those living in rural areas.

Those who take advantage of the scheme are still eligible for superfast broadband in the future. To check whether superfast broadband is available in your area you can visit this site: https://gosuperfastchecker.culture.gov.uk/.

The scheme has been extended several times and is currently in operation until the end of 2019.

How does it work?

The scheme is fairly simple - its aim is to make sure that households and businesses don’t pay more than £400 for hardware and installation to access basic broadband services.

A code is issued to anyone who is eligible that will reduce the cost of installation and any necessary equipment by up to £350. After entering into a 12-month minimum contract with an approved supplier, they will need to pay the monthly service charges, and VAT.

Who is it for?

Any household or business fulfilling the following criteria are eligible:

1. Your home or business is not currently able to access a broadband download speed of at least 2Mb per second.
2. There are no alternative affordable broadband services available to you, which would provide a download speed of at least 2Mb per second.
3. There are no plans to provide superfast broadband to your location within 6 to 12 months of your application.

What exceptions are there?

Any household or business that is believed to gain access to superfast broadband within 6-12 months will not be eligible. Only those that cannot access superfast broadband within the next 6-12 months will be eligible.

What do I need to provide?

Anyone who applies will have to provide confirmation that no other services are available to them that offer speeds of at least 2Mbps, or that they don’t already have a satellite or wireless broadband service.

Only owners or occupiers of addresses can apply, and confirmation will be required.

How to apply

To apply simply fill out the online application form at https://basicbroadbandchecker.culture.gov.uk/. The following information will be required:

1. Your postal address, including your postcode
2. The main telephone number at your address, if there is one available.
3. Your name and contact details including mobile phone number and email address.

Successful applicants will have their eligibility code emailed to them along with a list of registered suppliers offering the service in your area.

What else?

You will need to supply your eligibility code to your supplier when you order their services, and you must enter into a contract for a minimum of 12 months with them.

Once you have received the confirmation email with your code, you have 60 days to place an order.

Only suppliers registered for the scheme offer the discount and choosing a supplier who is not registered will require you to cover all costs without a subsidy.

Harry Pererra

Harry turns on his experience in journalism and programming to write about the latest news in the world of tech and the environemtn. When he isn’t writing for usave he is working towards his Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and prefers dogs to cats.

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