Through the Scottish Government’s national R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme (SBVS) more people across Aberdeenshire are now able to upgrade their broadband to superfast speeds.

A reliable broadband connection is a big part of our home and working lives. It enables improved access to public and health services, facilitates online learning and keeps us connected socially and during an emergency.

Recently, Scotland has experienced some adverse weather conditions. In the North East of Scotland, Storm Arwen caused widespread power outages and left many people without electricity, unable to get online or make calls.

For one local resident, an R100 SBVS interim voucher has helped with costs to install a new broadband connection. After power was restored, Hilary and her family, from outside Insch, Aberdeenshire, were able to get back online quickly.

Keeping connected

Hilary said: “Thanks to faster broadband, I’ve seen a massive improvement while working from home. We also have been able to keep in touch with family during lockdown. Living in a rural area, mobile signal is really poor so we couldn't make phone calls or use our online data. This was really tough and meant we had to travel to the next town for signal.

“During Storm Arwen, the masts in the local areas went down, however, once the power was switched back on, getting back online via our new broadband connection was really easy.”

For people interested in applying for an interim or main voucher, the R100 SBVS is still open for applications.

Voucher application deadlines

• Applications for interim vouchers will close on 31 March 2022
• Applications for main vouchers will continue to be accepted after March 2022

Eligible people can check their address on our online address checker and can find out what suppliers provide broadband services in their local area. Dependant on availability there could be different technology broadband solutions on offer including fixed wireless, fixed mobile, fibre or satellite options.

Find out more about the R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme.