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Help getting online

These are real schemes that can help people in Scotland get connected or pay less. We link to official sources—always check there for current eligibility and amounts, as these schemes change.

No fixed address?

Important — most schemes on this page will not apply

Most broadband schemes listed here require a permanent home address and a contract. They are not available to people who are homeless or in temporary accommodation, regardless of income.

The National Databank — free SIM cards with data — is one exception. It is distributed through foodbanks, hostels, day centres, and libraries with no address required. Ask at a local Shelter Scotland office, foodbank, or community centre whether they carry them.

Jobcentre Plus branches across Scotland have free computers, Wi-Fi, and digital mentors available Monday to Friday, 10am–3pm — for job searching, Universal Credit management, and general internet access. No appointment needed for device use.

Homelessness & digital exclusion →

On social tariffs: Only around 532,000 of the 6.2 million Universal Credit households that qualify for a cheaper broadband deal actually use one — that's roughly 1 in 12. More than half of people on benefits have never heard that social tariffs exist. When you apply, you don't need to provide paper proof — your broadband provider can verify your Universal Credit claim automatically through the DWP system. Just tell them you're on Universal Credit and ask for their social tariff.

Shown most recently updated first. If you know of a scheme we have missed, let us know.

Currently active UK-wide

Social tariffs — cheaper broadband for people on benefits

Major broadband providers offer significantly cheaper deals for people receiving Universal Credit and other qualifying benefits. Around 532,000 UK households currently use them — most eligible people do not know they exist.

Who it's for
People claiming Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Jobseeker's Allowance, or Income Support. Each provider has its own qualifying list — check directly with them.
What you get
Broadband packages from around £12.50–£20 per month with no mid-contract price rises and no exit fees. BT Home Essentials, Virgin Media Essential, Sky Broadband Basics, and Community Fibre all offer versions.
How to apply
Check which providers cover your address on the Ofcom page below, confirm your benefit, and contact the provider. You do not need to wait for your current contract to end.
Ofcom: social tariffs guide →
Currently active Scotland only

R100 — Reaching 100% broadband

The Scottish Government's £697m programme to bring superfast broadband to every premises in Scotland, including rural and remote areas that commercial providers have not reached. Over 96,000 premises already connected.

Who it's for
Households and businesses in areas without superfast broadband (30 Mbps+), particularly rural Scotland. Build is ongoing — your area may not be connected yet.
What you get
Superfast broadband infrastructure delivered via Openreach fibre. Build completion expected 2028.
How to apply
Check the Scottish Government's broadband pages to see whether your area is included in the programme and what the expected delivery date is.

Note: Some areas are being built now; others are scheduled for later. Check your postcode on the official page.

Scottish Government: R100 broadband roll-out →
Currently active UK-wide

UK Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme

Vouchers of up to £4,500 to help homes and businesses in rural areas pay for gigabit-capable broadband where commercial providers have not invested. Active Scottish contracts include the Borders, East Lothian, and North East Scotland.

Who it's for
Homes and businesses in rural areas not scheduled for a commercial gigabit upgrade and currently receiving less than 1 Gbps. Groups of premises can combine vouchers for larger installations.
What you get
Vouchers up to £4,500 for businesses and up to £1,500 for residential premises toward the cost of installation. Verify current amounts on the official page — they change.
How to apply
Check eligibility and apply through Building Digital UK. A broadband supplier must be part of the application. Groups of neighbours can apply together.

Note: Some Scottish areas are excluded where public-funded programmes (R100) are already delivering coverage.

Building Digital UK: Gigabit Voucher Scheme →
Check current status Scotland only

Connecting Scotland

A Scottish Government programme that provided devices and internet connections to digitally excluded people during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The programme is currently being redesigned — check the official page for what is currently available.

Who it's for
People on low incomes who lack devices or connectivity. The original programme targeted specific groups; the redesigned version may have different eligibility.
What you get
Devices and subsidised or free internet connections. Exact offer depends on the current phase of the programme.
How to apply
Visit the Connecting Scotland website to check what is currently available and how to apply or be referred.

Note: New applications were paused as the Scottish Government redesigns the programme. Check the official page for current status.

Connecting Scotland →
Check current status UK-wide

National Databank — free SIM cards with data

The Good Things Foundation distributes free SIM cards with data, calls, and texts to people who cannot afford to get online. Cards are available through over 1,600 community organisations including libraries, foodbanks, and charities.

Who it's for
People experiencing data poverty or on a low income who cannot afford a mobile data plan. Available through local partner organisations — no direct application to the Foundation.
What you get
Free SIM cards from Vodafone (40GB/month), O2 (25GB + rollover), and Three (24GB). No contract.
How to apply
Ask at your local library, foodbank, or community centre whether they are a National Databank partner. You can also search for partner organisations on the Good Things Foundation website.

Note: New partner organisations were not being accepted at the time we last checked. Existing network partners still distribute SIMs.

Good Things Foundation: National Databank →

Know of a scheme we've missed?

Help us keep this list current

Funding programmes come and go. If there's something that should be on this page — local authority schemes, housing association offers, charity programmes — let us know and we'll add it.

Tell us about it →

Local support in your area

Some of these schemes are delivered through local organisations—libraries, community centres, housing associations, and charities. Your local WIRES group may know what's available near you, or be able to help you find out.

Find a local WIRES group Ask us directly