A deaf and disabled man from rural Powys says his life has been transformed after finally gaining access to fast and reliable broadband through a Welsh Government scheme.

Mark, who lives in an area with no mobile signal and previously no internet, said the lack of connectivity created significant barriers for both work and daily life. Using British Sign Language (BSL) with interpreters during video calls was particularly difficult, and online streaming or entertainment was impossible.

After hearing about the Welsh Government’s Access Broadband Cymru (ABC) grant scheme from his neighbours, Mark applied and opted for a satellite broadband solution.

“I have gone from no internet to achieving download speeds of over 350Mbps,” he said.

“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 captions on my devices.

“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.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “The Access Broadband Cymru scheme is so vital for communities across Wales.

“Fast, reliable broadband connectivity is no longer a luxury – it's essential for work, communication, and accessing services. I'm delighted that with Welsh Government support Mark has been able to overcome the digital barriers he faced and achieve the connectivity he needs to fully participate in modern life.

“This is exactly what the scheme was designed to achieve – ensuring no one in Wales is left behind in our digital society."

To find out more about the Welsh Government’s Access Broadband Cymru scheme, visit: gov.wales/broadband-in-wales