The package offers 36 Mbps fibre broadband and 700 minutes of calls for £15 a month. BT says this will save customers £240 a year compared to an equivalent package.

Alternatively, eligible customers can opt for average speeds of 67 Mbps and unlimited calls for £20 a month.

BT announced the new package in May and it is available from today. Both existing and new BT customers on Universal Credit, the guaranteed credit element of Pension Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income Support, and Employment and Support Allowance, are eligible.

To mark the launch, BT conducted new research to highlight the importance of connectivity. More than half (55%) of respondents from low income homes say connectivity is more important than ever post pandemic to manage finances (79%), learn new skills online (69%) and access online health services (50%).

Nearly three quarters (74%) of all Brits say they would struggle to improve their financial situation or job prospects without a home connection.

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Marc Allera, CEO of BT’s consumer division, said, “BT’s purpose of Connecting for Good is at the heart of all we do, and a huge part of that is going above and beyond to support people who need it most. That’s why we’re launching BT Home Essentials, our low-cost fibre package that will now include all customers on Universal Credit, to provide a potential 4.6 million families across the UK with half-price fibre broadband and calls.

“BT Home Essentials will be available at half the price of our standard fibre package because fast, reliable connectivity to access vital online services – and keep in touch with loved ones – is more important than ever. It is a big step towards creating the connected, digitally inclusive UK we all want to see.”

Virgin Media also offers a broadband deal for people on benefits. Coincidentally it is also called ‘Essential’ and also costs £15 a month.