Rural Phone Signal

After repeatedly hearing from constituents on the doorstep about issues with mobile connectivity and experiencing the issue herself, Alison Bennett launched her mobile signal survey to better understand the scale of the problem across Mid Sussex.

The response was overwhelming and confirmed what many residents were saying - that poor mobile signal is not just an occasional frustration, but a daily challenge affecting people across our towns and villages.

The results we have gathered paint a stark picture. Across Mid Sussex, 69% of respondents said they usually have just 0–1 bars of mobile data signal. In areas like Cuckfield, the situation was worse, with 97% of respondents reported rarely having more than 0–1 bars of signal, while 65% said they could only rarely make phone calls from their homes.

Residents told said they struggle to receive security codes sent by text message, making it difficult to access online services such as the NHS App. Others reported missing important calls from their GP, their children's schools, employers, family members, or in some cases being concerned about their ability to contact emergency services when needed.

Since receiving the survey results, Alison has been in active discussions with mobile network providers including O2, EE, Vodafone and Three, sharing the experiences of local residents and pressing for action. Reliable mobile connectivity is no longer a luxury, it is essential for everyday life, from accessing healthcare and public services to running businesses and staying connected with family members.

As the MP for Mid Sussex, Alison will continue to hold providers to account and work with them to improve coverage, ensuring that residents receive the reliable mobile service they deserve.