A new study into connectivity has ranked Frome as one of the worst areas in the UK for 5G access.

The report, 'Connecting the Countryside' and commissioned by Vodafone UK with analysis carried out by WPI Economics, found nearly half (46%) of rural deprived areas are classed as 5G not-spots, whereas the same can only be said for 2.7% of urban deprived communities. 

The South-West is one of the worst performing areas of Britain - with the Somerton and Frome constituency found to have no go 5G in 24.37 % of the area, rising to 75.63 % when that service is not consistent or reliable, so only partially available.

While it is not the worst of the local towns, and Wells ranks particularly badly, the lack of 5G has a major impact on how people in Frome can communicate.

It is not just being connected for business and commercial reasons. As the report points out: " Improved digital connectivity is also essential in our rural communities, in areas where the impact of personal isolation can be particularly pronounced. For those patients who struggle to make it to a hospital appointment or GP surgery as a result of a combination of illness and or geographic constraints and wider commitments, 5G-enabled telemedicine solutions provide significant benefits."

Sarah Lee, Director of Policy at the Countryside Alliance said:

"For far too long rural communities have been left behind when it comes to digital connectivity and are often unable to access the most basic of services online, which many people take for granted. This research shows the stark reality that nearly 5 million people are living within rural not-spots for 5G coverage, and this is disproportionately impacting those living in rural deprived areas compared to urban ones. Those living and working in the countryside on the receiving end of this poor connectivity are only too aware of the benefits that the fast rollout of a nationwide 5G network could bring to their community, and it is now time for these communities to be connected."

You can read the full detail of the report HERE