Broadband is essential for so many right now

A huge 87% of people in the North West are using the internet in ways they never have before

People up and down the country are more dependent on their internet and broadband provider than ever before.

In the North West in particular, 53% are increasing their internet use due to the restrictions of Covid-19, a new study reveals. 
 
As of last Monday, March 23, UK residents were put under strict guidelines to stay at home.

The study, from leading price comparison website, Moneyexpert.com, found that 35% of people in the North West are using the internet for different means because of Covid-19,  and that one in five (22%) are finding it a lot more challenging to use the internet for things such as video calls or shopping for food online.  
 
However, a huge 87% of people in the North West are using the internet in ways they never have before.

While 61% are using the internet to keep up with the news and Government changes, 55% are relying on strong connection to keep themselves entertained, and to keep in touch with loved ones (51%).

13% are checking in on the elderly or an ‘at risk’ friend or family member, and some are even holding out hope for a summer holiday abroad by planning their next getaway!

With millions of Brits now working from home, the reliance on a strong connection is more necessary than ever.

However, for many, the change from professional office to home office isn’t quite as smooth and simple as hoped for.

Virtual video meetings are causing Brits to look unprofessional, with one in five of those in the North West missing meetings due to poor internet connection – on average, people have missed around three meetings since the pandemic began. 
 
Jason Smith, CEO of Moneyexpert.com, said: “With a significant proportion of the UK now working in a new way from home, many are coming up against new problems with their broadband and internet connection.

"A total of 45% of Brits are finding it difficult to connect to video meetings when more than one person in the house is using the internet, so consider creating a shared calendar to schedule meetings, and keep one room in the house free for those important calls.  
 
“With weeks and months of uncertainty ahead, optimising our home spaces to be entirely fit for our changed needs will help us reduce stress and keep our sanity.

"A suitable broadband connection with a minimum guaranteed speed is a key part of that.” 

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