As a result of the government's new 'Universal Service Obligation', you now have the right to request a decent and affordable broadband service if one is not already available to you.
Whilst 95% of UK homes have access to 'super-fast' broadband of 30Mbps or above, 2% of homes and businesses (many in rural areas like Broadland) are still unable to receive a good service (defined as a minimum 10Mbps download speed). The government has now introduced a Universal Service Obligation which enables customers receiving poor service to request an upgrade.
10Mbps is sufficient for typical home use, enabling a good quality experience when accessing all common internet applications, streaming TV services including HD, digital public services, and online shopping. If the existing infrastructure doesn't allow this level of service, the USO requires BT to upgrade their connectivity to meet or exceed these requirements, up to a maximum of £3,400 per premises.
If you think you may be eligible, please call BT on 0800 782 0223 to start the process. To qualify, you will need to have a current internet connection of less than 10Mbps, and live/work in premises where there are no alternative services available offering 10Mbps or above.
This is just a starting point - a safety net aimed to help those who struggle to get online because they cannot yet access a fast connection. The government is committed to growing the digital economy and working closely with Ofcom and providers to deliver full 'fibre to the premises' (FTTP) gigabit-capable broadband nationwide by 2025.
