Affordability of communications services

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Making sure people can access affordable phone, broadband and pay TV services is a priority for Ofcom.

Ofcom has a duty to carry out, publish and take account of consumer research regarding the experiences of consumers of communications services. In discharging these duties, we regularly collect and publish market intelligence and consumer research information on the services available, the prices of these services, the take-up by consumers, the reasons for not taking up services, and the overall spend on communications services.

Our regular monitoring of consumer affordability of communications services finds that some households struggle to afford communications services.

This report outlines updated research findings on the affordability of communications services, with a particular focus on fixed broadband given the importance that people place on being able to access the internet at home. Our findings and analysis highlight the ongoing role social tariffs can play in supporting households on means-tested benefits to afford these services.