Smart ways to save on your broadband and mobile bills

Staying connected is part of everyday life - whether you’re keeping in touch with loved ones, managing finances online, or accessing important services. But we know broadband and mobile costs can add up fast.

To support our Customers, we’ve put together some helpful ways to reduce your monthly bills, stay connected, and make the most of what’s available.

Jump to:

• Check if you could be eligible for a low-cost broadband plan
• Use public Wi-Fi where possible - but stay secure
• Keep track of your mobile data use
• Find out if you're eligible for a free Vodafone SIM card
• See if switching providers could save you money

Check if you could be eligible for a low-cost broadband plan

Social tariffs are special broadband deals offered by providers to support people who may be struggling financially. These packages are more affordable than standard plans and are available to people on a range of government benefits.

You might be eligible if you receive:

• Universal Credit
• Pension Credit
• Income Support
• Income-based JSA or ESA
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Attendance Allowance or Care Leaver support

Different providers offer different packages, so it’s worth comparing what’s out there. The Fast Broadband website helps you search by eligibility and location - and answers lots of common questions.

Use public Wi-Fi where possible - but stay secure

Public Wi-Fi, available in libraries, cafes and some Community hubs, can help you save data - especially if you need to download documents or join video calls. Just be cautious when using open networks. Avoid entering personal or banking information unless you’re on a secure connection or using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Keep track of your mobile data use

Data usage can sneak up on you, and lead to unexpected costs. If you’re regularly going over your allowance or paying for more than you need, a few small changes can help:

Use Wi-Fi whenever you can, disable background data for apps you don’t need running, and download music or videos ahead of time when on Wi-Fi. Many phones also let you set a monthly data limit or usage alerts to stay on track.

Find out if you're eligible for a free Vodafone SIM card

We’re working with Vodafone to provide free SIM cards to support some of our most in-need Customers. If you're a Places for People Customer who could benefit from some extra help staying connected, you might be eligible.

These SIMs are pre-loaded with six months of unlimited calls, unlimited texts and 40GB of data each month. After the six months, the SIM switches to a standard Pay-as-you-go plan, which can be topped up as needed. If you'd like to keep your existing phone number, you can request a PAC code from your current provider and Vodafone will take care of the rest.

Demand for these SIM cards is high, and availability is limited - so if you feel this could make a difference for you or someone in your household, we encourage you to get in touch by emailing us at inclusion@placesforpeople.co.uk, or visit Vodafone’s Charities Connected page to find out more about how the scheme works.

See if switching providers could save you money

It’s always worth shopping around. Whether for broadband or mobile, many providers offer competitive deals to new Customers or match prices if you find a cheaper plan elsewhere. If you're out of contract, or close to the end, it could be the perfect time to compare your options.

Helpful comparison sites include:

• Uswitch
• MoneySavingExpert
• Which? Mobile and Broadband Guides

Just double-check your current contract to avoid early exit fees.