A new campaign to demonstrate how superfast broadband is changing people’s lives will be launched today (3 January) in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
The superfast broadband campaign, run by the Welsh Government, is aiming to promote superfast broadband to Rhondda Cynon Taf residents to demonstrate its benefits and encourage its further use across the county.
With the majority of Rhondda Cynon Taf residents now having the ability to access the service, the campaign will showcase how superfast broadband is transforming the way people work, learn and connect with their families and friends.
Superfast broadband enables multiple devices to work simultaneously, allowing people to stream films, download music, study or keep in touch with loved ones without disrupting a connection.
The campaign will highlight how the service is transforming the ways in which people live and work across Wales.
Campaign organisers will be working with libraries, schools and community centres in Rhondda Cynon Taf and attending Mountain Ash shopping centre on 10th February and Talbot Green shopping centre on 24th February to raise awareness of superfast broadband.
While most of the county can now access faster broadband should they wish to do so, a small percentage of premises are not yet able to access it. Assistance is also available for them on the Welsh Government website or by contacting the Welsh Government broadband team*.
Welsh Government Minister for Skills and Science, Julie James, said: “Superfast broadband has become crucial for homes, which is why we are committed to bringing faster internet speeds to regions across Wales. Improving our digital infrastructure is key to driving economic growth, supporting public services and helping people communicate.
“While the majority of homes in Rhondda Cynon Taf can now access superfast broadband should they wish to, many people are simply not fully aware of its benefits or how it can be accessed. Faster broadband speeds are enabling families and individuals to carry out their activities with greater speed and efficiency than ever before, and on multiple devices. This includes activities such as downloading large learning resources for children, managing bank accounts, shopping for groceries, paying household bills or using video services such as Skype – to name a few.
“For home-workers, the service increases efficiency, boosts productivity and optimises delivery. Being able to communicate via high definition video conferencing or Skype enables companies to speak with staff, customers and suppliers from anywhere in the world.
“Superfast broadband also gives access to cloud computing services such as instant data back-ups, making security and upgrades much easier for users.
“We want as many people as possible to realise these benefits, and this campaign aims to showcase how the technology is impacting thousands of lives in communities across Wales.
“The rollout of superfast broadband is continuing across Wales and while most premises can now receive it, I know that there are premises waiting for it, or unsure as yet if they will receive it. Advice and assistance is also available for them.”
Households and businesses in Rhondda Cynon Taf wanting to take advantage of the benefits of fast fibre broadband should contact an internet service provider (ISP) of their choice to place an order.
*To find out what broadband is available, people are advised to visit www.gov.wales/broadband
This also includes information for those not yet able to receive superfast broadband as support may be available through the Welsh Government’s Access Broadband Cymru scheme, which provides grant funding to access superfast broadband through other means.
