Broadband Support Scheme

The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government is encouraging people across Wales to apply for help to access a broadband service.

265 applications have been received for the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government’s Broadband Support Scheme since its launch in July.

The scheme enables individuals and groups in remaining Welsh broadband ‘notspots’ to approach internet service providers directly, with support of Assembly Government funding. Support is available for up to a maximum of £1,000 for individual premises to help with the set-up and installation costs of a broadband connection.

Gwenda Thomas said: ‘Individuals and groups, who do not receive broadband, should apply to this scheme, which has been funded by the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government and Europe, for help in gaining broadband access. Everyone, from home users, to small businesses like farmers, would benefit from the advantages of high-speed broadband’.

Communities that apply for funding can pool money to find the best solution and several around the country are already exploring this route. The scheme is designed to help everyone from the home internet user to businesses and farmers to specialist services like mountain rescue groups. Initial funding of around £2 million has been allocated, with discussions now under way to access European assistance from the Rural Development Plan.

The Assembly Government is particularly keen to receive applications that deliver the best sustainable solutions to local broadband problems – so ensuring higher speed connectivity, rather just than a basic service. The scheme is technology neutral and can contribute towards ADSL, 3G, wi-fi or satellite solutions.

Detailed guidance and application details of the Broadband Support Scheme can be found here