The Better Broadband
Scheme offers a subsidised basic broadband
connection to anyone unable to get download speeds of at
least 2 mbps, and who will not benefit from the superfast
broadband roll out within the next 12 months.
Since its launch in December 2015, the scheme has so far
boosted the broadband speeds of more than 20,000 homes and
businesses in some of the hardest to reach areas of the UK.
Households and businesses that are eligible to take
advantage of the scheme have the installation and hardware
costs of their connection subsidised to ensure their first
year costs are no more than £400.
The subsidy is used to fund a variety of technology
solutions including - satellite, 4G and fixed wireless.
The closing date for applications has now been extended
until 31 December 2019.
, Minister for Digital,
said:
Improving broadband services for people struggling with
poor connections is a top priority for the government -
we want everyone to benefit from the digital revolution.
While we’ve helped make superfast speeds a reality for 19
out of 20 UK premises and are reaching thousands more
each week, this scheme offers immediate assistance to
those most in need.
The Government’s superfast broadband rollout continues as
part of its Industrial Strategy to ensure all homes and
businesses in Britain have access to high speed broadband
by 2020.
And it has also introduced the Universal Service Obligation
which will give everyone the legal right to request a
connection to high speed broadband. Eligible consumers will
be able to request a connection under the Universal Service
Obligation by the end of 2019.
