The digital switchover is coming

Important Changes to Your Landline Telephone - What You Need to Know

In the coming months, landline phone services in the UK are changing. Traditional copper phone lines are being replaced with a new system called Digital Voice or VoIP for short. This means landline calls will be made over the internet, rather than through old telephone wires.

This is happening because the old phone network is becoming outdated and difficult to maintain. The new system will be more reliable and offer clearer sound quality.

You can read the full details on the Ofcom website here

Some of the important points covered are:

• Customers who want to keep a landline phone will need to move to a VoIP (Digital Voice) service
• Your phone provider should arrange to supply the equipment needed to keep your main telephone connected
• Making phone calls in a power cut. (A digital phone service will only work in a power cut if it has a battery back-up).
• Make sure your phone provider knows about your needs and circumstances
• You may need to change your care alarm, security alarm or fax machine
• Before you change to a digital landline, let your provider know if:
  • you have a care alarm, health pendant or security alarm that uses the telephone line;
  • you don’t own a mobile phone, or you don't have enough signal at home to call the emergency services in a power cut
  • you have a disability or any other needs that mean you need extra help with the installation in your home
• Your VoIP service will be provided over a broadband connection. If you don't have one your provider should supply one (only to support the VoIP service - no internet).

For support with the digital switchover read the full article from Ofcom here or contact us at Age UK North Tyneside.

But don't worry. The switch to Digital Voice will be happening gradually, so there’s no need to worry. When the time comes, you’ll be given all the information and help you need.