The UK’s telephone network is changing. Between now and the end of 2025 most telephone providers will be moving customers to new digital landline services.
This means services that rely on the old landline system such as home phones and healthcare devices are being switched over.
This may include:
- Home phones (traditional landline)
- Amplified phones (for those with hearing loss)
- Personal telecare products
- Fall and motion detectors
- Portable healthcare devices such as ECG or oxygen monitors
How will it affect you/What you need to do
The good news is, your landline isn’t going anywhere. For most consumers and businesses, this change will be straightforward. Many customers are already making the switch when they upgrade to full fibre broadband.
Your telecoms provider (for example Virgin Media O2 or BT) should contact you before the switchover. They will check in and discuss what you need to do to make sure your service isn’t affected. We’re encouraging everyone to know what to expect.
The change may be as simple as plugging your phone into your broadband router.
Telecare safety devices
Tell your communications provider if you or someone you know depends on a landline or uses a telecare device connected to a phone line. Such as a falls monitor, lifeline, or personal alarm. They can tell you how the switch could affect you.
CareCall
We have been working for the past four years replacing the old outdated units with a digital ones. The digital units do not use customers own telephone lines. They have a sim card and connection is via the data/voice sim. We will replace all analogue units before the switch off.
Sheltered and Assisted living
We're upgrading our sheltered and assisted living schemes to make sure they can operate when switched over.
Look out for vulnerable residents in your community. Keep an eye on your neighbours if they rely on the above services. Your support can make a real difference during this transition.
What if I have no broadband
Some providers will offer the option to use a simple internet connection for making calls.
Low-cost broadband tariffs are available. They are called 'Social Tariffs'
They can provide superfast broadband at a much cheaper rate than regular packages. Prices won't go up mid-contract! There are no exit fees if you leave before the end of your contract. Prices vary between £12-£20 per month. Some customers have saved up to £50 per month on their bills by making the switch. Contact your provider to see if you are eligible. Visit their website or call them.
In an emergency
Digital landlines cannot carry a power connection, so in the event of a power cut they will not work. You can still use a mobile phone. If you have no other way to call emergency services your telecoms provider will offer a solution to allow you to make calls to emergency services.
What we are doing
We are looking at where the Council has analogue phone lines, including:
- Services that use phone lines. Such as safety alarms, lifts alarms, emergency toilet pull cords and car park payment machines.
- Council buildings
- Sheltered Accommodation
- Schools
We are working to make sure there is minimal disruption and residents stay safe in their homes.
Look out for further information and be aware if scams
Your telecoms provider should contact you before the switchover. They will check in and discuss what you need to do to make sure your service isn’t affected.
The switchover is affecting millions of homes. This can create an opportunity for criminals to develop new scams. These scam attempts could happen over the phone, via email, or in person on your doorstep.
You do not need to pay for a new service. Be aware of any communications which ask for personal details or any kind of payment. If in doubt, hang up on phone calls and do not click on any links. You can always seek a second opinion and speak to your telephone company.
For more information
The switchover is being undertaken by BT Openreach and your telecoms provider.
For more information, please contact your telephone provider and/or visit
Gov Guidance - UK transition from analogue to digital landlines
Ofcom, Moving landline phones to digital technology: what you need to know