Ofcom has reported that 1.6 million people have already used its new One Touch Switch process to move broadband or landline provider, making it quicker and simpler than ever to shop around for a better deal.

But, according to financial wellness platform Money Wellness, millions of low-income households are still missing out on even bigger savings because they don’t realise they could qualify for discounted broadband and phone social tariffs.

Social tariffs are specially discounted deals available to people on certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit and some disability benefits. They can cost as little as £12-£20 a month, which is often half the price of standard packages. And could save households around £200–£250 a year.

Yet take-up remains low. Of the 4.3 million eligible households, only around 220,000 (5.1%) are currently signed up. That means millions are still paying over the odds.

Thomas Gibbons, a money adviser at Money Wellness, said: ““It’s brilliant to see so many people taking advantage of Ofcom’s One Touch Switch. Switching has never been easier. But we’re worried too many low-income households are being left behind. Social tariffs could make broadband and phone bills genuinely affordable, yet most people who qualify don’t even know they exist. We speak to hundreds of people every day who have never heard of them or understand how they can help reduce their bills.

“With the cost of living still tight, we’d urge everyone to check today if they qualify for a social tariff. It could save you hundreds of pounds a year, and switching couldn’t be simpler.”

While major providers such as BT, Virgin Media, Sky, and Vodafone offer discounted plans for eligible low-income households, not all providers have introduced social tariffs. Availability can also vary by location. And some smaller or regional providers, for example Quickline, KCOM, and YouFibre, may offer social tariffs that are not widely advertised.

Money Wellness is urging households not to miss out on support that could help ease the pressure of rising bills.

Gibbons adds: “Take just half an hour this week to check what tariff you’re on – it could save you hundreds of pounds a year. If you’re on a low income or receive means-tested benefits, such as Universal Credit, there’s a good chance you qualify for a social tariff. If you’re unsure where to start, speak to your current provider first; they can often help you switch to a cheaper deal before you even need to look elsewhere. If they don’t offer a social tariff, you can find a complete list of providers who do on Ofcom’s website. And if you need to switch, just contact the provider you’d like to join, and One Touch Switch will handle the process for you. It’s really straightforward and easy to do.”