RESIDENTS on Universal Credit could be missing out on cheaper deals for broadband and mobile, Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) in Peebles has warned.

Nationally, the charity is campaigning for greater promotion and eligibility for ‘social tariffs’.

A social tariff is a cheaper deal available to people receiving social security payments like Universal Credit.

The telecoms regulator Ofcom estimates that 8.3 per cent of people eligible for these deals take them up across the UK.

CAS says if that figure was mirrored in Scotland it would mean that 396,231 people in Universal Credit in Scotland could be missing out on cheaper deals.

Kyle Scott, Citizens Advice Scotland Strong Communities spokesperson, said: “Social tariffs have been a lifeline for people during the cost-of-living crisis.

“As the pandemic showed, access to the internet isn’t just a leisure issue, it’s an essential utility to help people live, work and learn.

“We’ve seen some growth in the number of providers offering social tariffs in recent years, which is really welcome, but social tariffs as a whole remain under promoted and underutilised by consumers.

“Hundreds of thousands of people could be missing out on cheaper deals.

“These deals should be extended further to other groups who would benefit from them, such as those living with disabilities or fleeing domestic violence.

“They can be a great tool in helping people access services, training or work, and could be a real benefit to people in vulnerable situations.”

Elsewhere, Peebles CAB is looking to recruit people who live locally and would like to contribute to the community by joining its Board of Trustees.

A spokesperson said: “We are seeking team players who have strategic vision, independent judgement, and a willingness to give time and commitment to help support and develop our organisation.

“This is an exciting time to join us as we look forward to developing and strengthening our services to meet the challenges that our community will face. Your ideas, skills and enthusiasm could make all the difference to how we achieve this.

“Applicants will be over 18 and have the experience and skills to ensure that the charity continues to develop and provide high-quality long-term services.

“As a trustee, you will be required to ensure the good governance of the organisation which will involve attendance at regular board meetings and an annual AGM.

“This is a great opportunity to help shape the future of information and advice services in Tweeddale and contribute to making a real difference to the local area.

“This is a voluntary post but expenses will be paid and the closing date for applications is February 5, 2024.”

To apply, or to obtain more information, email: gill.westwood@peeblesCAB.casonline.org.uk