Cost of living support

Being online can mean staying in touch with our loved ones and accessing all kinds of information and services. Getting online can also mean greater access to jobs and education, cheaper goods and services, leisure and entertainment, and banking and managing money online. 

Our Let’s Get Digital programme works to ensure that residents have the skills, tools, and support to get online and make the most of the online world. 

Get Online for Less 

Social tariffs: cheaper broadband and phone packages  

A social tariff is a reduced cost broadband package, offered by broadband and telecom companies to eligible benefit claimants. Some providers call them ‘essential’ or ‘basic’ broadband.  

On average, these tariffs are £7 to £27 cheaper per month than standard tariffs and they can save you up to £200 annually. 

Our Let’s Get Digital  Get Online for Less page provides  details on social tariffs as well as tips for understanding your data usage and cutting your phone, broadband and pay-TV costs  

Face to Face Help and Support 

There are various ways you can access free face-to-face support to improve your skills with technology and digital devices:   

• Digital Help Drop ins - Supported by Digital Champion volunteers. Whether you want someone to guide you through an issue or if you want a relaxed setting to understand more about your smartphone or tablet, there are options available for support. 
• IT support sessions - Supported by Libraries staff. You can visit any Waltham Forest library to receive guidance in accessing council services online at any time. If you require dedicated help, our library team will be happy to welcome you to one of our free drop-in sessions. 
• Digital Skills in the Community – Delivered by local community organisations. support for local communities to develop their digital skills and improve their access to technology. 

More details of times and locations on our Let’s Get Digital Face to Face Help and Support page 

Further Support with Digital Skills 

Our Let’s Get Digital page provides you with various information and resources: 

Digital support and access directory - Find face to face support across the borough to get friendly help with your devices and using the internet with our directory.

Free IT Support at Home – AbilityNet volunteers provide free IT support to older people and disabled people of any age, anywhere in the UK. 

Waltham Forest Adult Learning Service - Digital Skills Courses -  a range of digital skills courses available across the borough. 

Develop your digital skills online - online platforms that you can use to develop your own digital skills or to support someone else. 

Staying safe online - online platforms, and how-to guides that can support you to improve your knowledge and understanding of online safety.   

Online safety guidance for parents, carers and grandparents – resources to build your online safety confidence and to help children and teenagers navigate the digital world safely.