Fusion Fibre is working with Building Digital UK (BDUK) to future proof rural communities with gigabit-capable full fibre broadband. This initiative aims to equip the UK for the demands of the 21st century.
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS)
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS) forms an integral component of ‘Project Gigabit‘. This is a government effort to future-proof properties in hard-to-reach regions with full fibre broadband.
Thanks to the scheme, ISPs can alleviate some costs associated with installing fibre-to-the-premise (FTTP) networks.
Properties which meet this criteria can apply for a voucher to support the cost of installing full fibre:
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- Existing broadband speeds are below 100Mbps.
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- The prospect of a gigabit-capable network being commercially deployed in the near future is slim.
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- There are no government-funded contracts in place to enhance existing network infrastructure.
In a nutshell, the GBVS strives to bridge the digital divide by extending reliable internet access to areas which may otherwise be left without a reliable connection.
The importance of reliable internet connectivity.
In today’s landscape, a dependable internet connection is more important than ever.
Broadband supports essential online activities such as remote work, education, and healthcare services. This enables individuals to stay connected, productive, and informed in an increasingly digital world.
Furthermore, in line with industry advancements, Open reach has outlined plans to phase out the copper network (PSTN), which has long been the backbone of the UK’s telecommunication infrastructure.
With this in mind, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of funded fibre installations.
The Gigabit Broadband Voucher process
1: Request
With your consent, we will request a voucher from BDUK for connecting your property. BDUK will then check you are happy to go ahead by email. Please follow the link in the email to complete the short form on the government website.
2: Connect
We’ll then get working on your new connection. This could take a matter of months, depending on how far along in the network build we are. If the network is already live in your neighbourhood, we will aim to get you installed within two to three weeks.
3: Confirm
Once you’re connected, we’ll let the BDUK team know the work is done.
4: Verify
BDUK will then reach out to you again via email to confirm that your service is live and working. You’ll need to complete a similar form on the government website to verify your connection.
If you do not make this declaration, DCMS will not be able to pay the voucher to us. You must respond to DCMS requests for information within 28 days or your voucher may be cancelled.
5: Sign off
After some final checks, BDUK will award us the voucher revenue which is allocated to your property.
Get connected to your Gigabit Broadband Voucher!
If you’d like to sign up for a fibre broadband connection, get in touch with our team on 0333 305 7560. Or, email sales@fusionfibregroup.co.uk. Alternatively, sign-up through our online postcode checker here: fusionfibregroup.co.uk/coverage-postcode-checker/
