The Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme (SBVS) will close to new application on 20th November 2026. Until that date, eligible premises are still able to register the usage of an SBVS voucher, at which point a supplier will have 12 months to fulfil the voucher request.

As a reminder, the SBVS was introduced to support homes and businesses that could not access an affordable superfast broadband service (at least 30Mbps) through commercial provision, or through publicly subsidised delivery programmes, such as the Reaching 100% (R100) programme. The scheme provides vouchers of up to £5,000 to help cover the costs of installing a superfast broadband connection. Since its launch, the scheme has helped provide more than 6,000 connections to homes and businesses across Scotland, supported by more than 60 registered suppliers across its lifetime.

Aberdeenshire has consistently had the highest uptake of the SBVS vouchers in Scotland, with nearly 30% of all eligible properties using their voucher to date. However, it has been determined that there are 2,720 premises in Aberdeenshire which do not currently have a superfast broadband connection, are not included in any known commercial or publicly funded upgrade plans, and are therefore eligible for the SBVS – which has not yet been utilised.

Aberdeenshire Council strongly encourage residents and businesses with poor broadband connectivity, to explore their options and take action where possible. This is an opportunity to improve broadband connections with financial support towards installation costs. With the deadline approaching, they urge residents not to delay and risk missing out on this opportunity.

What should residents do next?
1. Visit the Scottish Government’s Digital Connectivity website to check the status of a property, to see if the property is eligible for the SBVS, and find out more about the scheme: https://digitalconnectivity.campaign.gov.scot/
2. Identify and contact a registered SBVS supplier to discuss the connection options available at their property, including any ongoing service charges or contract requirements. A list of suppliers can be found on the Scottish Government website here.
3. Speak to a supplier as soon as possible to understand the steps required to progress the voucher before the closing date.

It is important to note, that the voucher helps with eligible installation costs and does not cover ongoing monthly broadband charges. The chosen supplier(s) will be able to explain the available options and any terms and conditions.

Aberdeenshire Council want to ensure that residents and businesses across Aberdeenshire have every opportunity to benefit from improved digital connectivity. If your property is eligible, they encourage you to make the most of this support while it remains available.

If any resident, business, or community, would like advice on utilising the Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme, or require any other information or guidance on digital connectivity matters, Aberdeenshire Council welcome enquiries to the Digital Engagement Team, who can be contacted directly:

By email at: digitalengagement@aberdeenshire.gov.uk
By phone at: 01467 469322