Superfast Broadband real life stories: Mark from Powys

Living in a very rural area of Powys, Mark struggled with no broadband access and no mobile signal at his home. As a deaf and disabled person access to a decent broadband connection was becoming increasingly important for communication and security. 

Mark had great difficulties using British Sign Language with his interpreters when attempting video calls for work. Accessing any online entertainment, such as streaming TV programmes and films, was also impossible. 

Mark found out that other neighbours in his community had used the Welsh Government’s Access Broadband Cymru (ABC) grant scheme to access faster more reliable broadband connections. The scheme provides grant funding to support the installation of a broadband solution to homes and businesses in Wales that are unable to achieve a fast connection over 30Mbps via any other means. 

Mark turned to his neighbours for advice on broadband solutions they had used and travelled to get online so he could research funding and technology options. He eventually decided on a satellite broadband connection, using the ABC grant to help fund the equipment and installation costs.

Mark said that he found the application process for the ABC grant straightforward, clear and user friendly. Once he had purchased the satellite dish, he found a fitter who installed the dish on the roof of his home, drilling through his walls to set up a router inside. 

Mark said 

“I have found the new connection vital for both my work and communications. I have gone from no internet to achieving download speeds of over 350Mbps. I am now able to communicate with work and friends by text, email and video call using British Sign Language. The faster connection means British Sign Language is much more real time and fluid. I can now also stream programmes with closed caption on my devices. 

“I would definitely recommend the ABC grant scheme to others. Without the grant I would not have broadband, it gave me the confidence to take the plunge with a new connection. The higher monthly cost for satellite broadband can be an issue, but for me the reliability is so important for maintaining contact and communication. My advice to anyone else in a similar situation would be to go for it!”