A deaf and disabled man from Powys who struggled with no
broadband access and no mobile signal at his home says his
digital connectivity has been transformed thanks to Welsh
Government support.
Mark, who lives in a very rural area of Powys, found access to
decent broadband was becoming increasingly important for
communication and security needs.
The lack of connectivity created significant barriers for Mark's
work and daily life. He experienced great difficulties using
British Sign Language with interpreters during video calls for
work, and accessing online entertainment such as streaming TV
programmes and films was impossible.
After learning that neighbours in his community had successfully
used the Welsh Government's Access Broadband Cymru (ABC) grant
scheme, Mark researched his options and decided on a satellite
broadband solution. He said:
"I have gone from no internet to achieving download speeds of
over 350Mbps.
“I am now able to communicate with work and friends by text,
email and video call using British Sign Language. The faster
connection means British Sign Language is much more real time and
fluid. I can now also stream programmes with closed captions on
my devices.
“Without the grant I would not have broadband, it gave me the
confidence to take the plunge with a new connection. The higher
monthly cost for satellite broadband can be an issue, but for me
the reliability is so important for maintaining contact and
communication.”
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, , said:
"The Access Broadband Cymru scheme is so vital for communities
across Wales.
“Fast, reliable broadband connectivity is no longer a luxury –
it's essential for work, communication, and accessing services.
I'm delighted that with Welsh Government support Mark has been
able to overcome the digital barriers he faced and achieve the
connectivity he needs to fully participate in modern life.
“This is exactly what the scheme was designed to achieve –
ensuring no one in Wales is left behind in our digital society."
To find out more about the Welsh Government's Access Broadband
Cymru scheme and solutions available to you for getting faster
broadband visit gov.wales/broadband-in-wales.
