Across the country, the Scottish Government’s R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme (SBVS) is continuing to help connect local communities to faster broadband.

As part of our Reaching 100% (R100) commitment to improve superfast broadband access across Scotland, this scheme is open to all eligible households and offers two types of subsidies – £400 interim voucher and a £5,000 main voucher – to help cover the cost of a new broadband installation.

Digital connectivity continues to play a key role in keeping Scotland online throughout the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. For those living in remote and rural parts of Scotland, a better internet connection has transformed everyday life for many people.

In Dumfries and Galloway, local resident Peter Richardson, from Ervie outside Stranraer, successfully applied for an interim voucher during lockdown.

Keeping connected during Covid-19

Peter said: "The interim voucher has helped us secure a better broadband connection using 4G. Faster speeds have made such a huge difference.

“When schools were shut and all of us were working from home, multiple members of my family could use the internet at the same time, without any problems. Before a new broadband connection, only one person at a time could use the internet and if anyone needed to get online for work or school, the rest of the household had to switch off their devices.”

Making calls and online streaming

Peter added: “When watching and streaming TV, we experienced issues such as our connection timing out. We relied upon making calls via wifi, since our mobile signal was not very strong. Now we can make calls, browse and watch our favourite programmes easily. I also find it much easier and quicker to access train timetables and up-to-date information. Great, when I need to make advance ticket bookings for work or leisure.”

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.

Find out more about the R100 Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme on our website, and visit our online address checker to check your eligibility for the main and interim vouchers.