Broadband and mobile

Over 98% of homes and businesses in Leicestershire can now upgrade to superfast broadband of at least 24Mbps (and often much faster) and over 74% can access gigabit broadband of at least 1000Mbps.

However, many people are still struggling to access reliable connectivity. Here you can find a range of options to help you get better broadband and mobile services.

If you’re looking for advice for choosing your broadband provider, you can also visit our choosing your broadband provider page and follow the steps.

Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme

The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme is part of the government’s Project Gigabit, focused on helping people and communities upgrade their broadband connection. The scheme mainly operates in areas where there is no coverage by Project Gigabit.

Eligible homes and businesses can apply for up to £4,500 to cover the costs of a gigabit-capable connection.

The voucher scheme in Leicestershire is currently closed due to Project Gigabit procurements. You can keep up to date on availability in County on the government’s Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme information page

Social tariffs – low-cost broadband and mobile packages

What are Social Tariffs?

Social Tariffs are low-cost broadband and phone packages for people claiming government support such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and Income Support. These cheaper deals cost between £10 and £20 a month.

As well as being more affordable, social tariffs are usually on shorter-term contracts. Plus there are no early exit fees – so people are not tied to the contract if their circumstances change, and you can leave without paying a penalty.

Current Social Tariffs available are:

4th Utility | Social Tariff Plan

BT | BT Home Essentials

Community Fibre | Essential 35 Mbps

EE | EE Basics

Grayshott Gigabit | Social Connect Tariff

Hyperoptic | Fair Fibre

NOW | Broadband Basics

Shell | Essentials Broadband

Sky | Social Tariffs

SMARTY | Social Tariff

Virgin Media | Essentials Broadband

Vodafone | Essentials Broadband

VOXI | For Now

For more information, including how to apply for social tariffs, follow the below link to Ofcom’s website:

https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-telecoms-and-internet/advice-for-consumers/costs-and-billing/social-tariffs

Universal Service Obligation (USO)

If you can’t get a download speed of at least 10Mbps and an upload speed of at least 1Mbps (this is defined as a ‘decent connection’), you can request an upgraded connection through BT. You don’t need to be an existing BT customer to apply.

The USO is applicable for both homes and businesses.

For more information on the USO, including eligibility criteria and costs, see Ofcom’s website page on the USO.