Broadband Voucher Scheme

More communities sign up to Government schemes that reduce the cost of getting fast internet speeds.

04:33 26 May 2020

More communities are working together and signing up for various Government schemes that aim to reduce the cost of getting rural broadband. The voucher scheme is particularly popular during the Covid-19 lockdown as many people are forced to work from home. 

 

Superfast Worcestershire has seen a spike in project activity as more communities apply for vouchers. Homeowners are eligible to apply for £1,500 worth of voucher while small businesses can access £3,500 funding. 

 

Worcestershire County Council said that interest in the voucher schemes has been driven by community-minded individuals who are helping their elderly and vulnerable neighbours with chores like shopping and collecting prescriptions during lockdown. 

 

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin said: "Some of the extra demand is being driven by families who are now all living and working at home struggling to access the internet at the same time.

 

"Similar households are now clubbing together to secure fibre upgrades by signing up for one of the national voucher schemes. 

 

"But I also have heard heartening reports that communities are getting closer together as they help each other during the Covid-19 crisis. 

 

"In helping each other out, they have been able to share more information about better broadband schemes and the county council team has seen a spike in recent weeks.

 

"Good broadband speeds are essential now more than ever, and I would encourage communities to see if there are any tips they can pick up."