Consumers could find they benefit in three different ways by switching their broadband providers, it has been claimed.

Figures from Broadband Choices show a financial saving of up to £141.60 to be made over the course of the year.

Some 35 per cent of respondents to a recent survey conducted by ICM Research said they are reluctant to switch broadband providers as they do not believe they could get as good a deal elsewhere.

But product development director Michael Phillips explains that there are other considerations to take into account.

"Switching broadband provider can potentially get you a faster internet connection, better service and it can save you money," he says.

"Moreover, if consumers shop around, it needn't mean entering into a punitive long-term contract."

The survey found that the length of a new contract is the main fear for 43 per cent of respondents, while 29 per cent simply cannot be bothered to switch.

A recent survey conducted by O2 Broadband found that a quarter of UK consumers are dissatisfied with the level of service they receive when calling their broadband providers for help.

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