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Better Broadband Scheme
The Better Broadband Subsidy Scheme has been developed by the UK government to provide access to a subsidised broadband installation to homes and businesses that are unable to access a broadband service with a download speed of at least 2 Mb per second and who will not benefit from the superfast broadband roll out.
Local Bodies in conjunction with Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) are making available the option of a subsidised satellite broadband installation for eligible premises. This provides support towards the cost of equipment and installation of a satellite broadband connection so that a basic broadband service can be purchased for a first year cost of no more than £400 (taking account of any up-front costs and the 12 month service charges). The subsidised installation can also be used to access higher cost packages with higher speeds or greater monthly data caps.
You will only be eligible if your premises does not have access to speeds of more than 2Mbps. Note: as well as the major broadband networks such as BT Openreach and Virgin Media, you may also be able to get a basic broadband service from other suppliers who have coverage within the area.
How the Better Broadband Subsidy Scheme Works
Households and businesses can take advantage of the Scheme if they meet the following three criteria:
- Your home or business is not currently able to access a broadband download speed of at least 2Mb per second.
- There are no alternative affordable broadband services available to you, which would provide a download speed of at least 2Mb per second.
- There are no plans to provide superfast broadband to your location within 12 months of your application.
The Better Broadband Subsidy Scheme will ensure that no household or business will need to pay more than £400 to access a basic broadband service over a 12 month period. Households and businesses that are eligible to take advantage of the Scheme will be provided with a unique code that will cover most of the cost of the installation and commissioning of a basic broadband service including any necessary equipment.
They will be required to enter into a contract for a minimum of 12 months with one of the suppliers registered under the Scheme and pay any remaining cost of installation(if any), the monthly charge for the service they select, and any VAT payable.
