Wyre Forest Citizen’s Advice Bureau writes for the Standard.
TRADITIONAL landline telephone networks are being phased out across the UK and replaced with digital lines, referred to as ‘Digital Voice’ or ‘Voice over Internet Protocol’ (VoIP).
By January 2027, most households and businesses will have moved onto the new system.
The old analogue network, known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), has been in use for decades and is now outdated and harder to maintain.
Moving to digital technology will bring clearer calls, greater reliability during bad weather and new features such as anonymous caller rejection and three-way calling.
For most people, the change will be simple. If you already have broadband, you may just need to plug your phone into your router instead of the wall socket.
You don’t need to take any action until your phone provider contacts you and they’ll give you instructions when it’s time to switch.
If you don’t use broadband, you will still be able to keep a landline.
The law ensures that everyone in the UK has access to a telephone service.
Some providers will also offer ‘landline-only’ packages for those who don’t want home internet.
Things to check
- Telecare alarms, medical alert devices, security systems, or fax machines connected to your landline may need adaptors or upgrades so they continue to work.
- Digital landlines won’t work in a power cut unless you have a back-up such as a battery unit. Providers must ensure vulnerable customers can still call the emergency services, so if you rely on your landline, let your provider know and they can provide you with relevant equipment.
- Businesses should check equipment such as alarms or payment machines remain compatible.
- In most cases the switch-over can be done remotely without anyone visiting the home.
Further information is available from your telephone provider, Ofcom’s website or the Digital Phone Switchover Hub. Visit digitalphoneswitchover.com for more.
If you’re worried about how the switchover may affect you, you can contact Citizens Advice Wyre Forest for free, independent support by emailing [email protected] or by calling the Advice Line on 0808 278 7891.
