The digital phone switchover - everything you need to be aware of

The UK’s telephone network is changing. Between now and 2027 most telephone providers will be moving their customers from old analogue landlines over to new upgraded landline services using digital technology. This means services that rely on the old landline system such as home phones and healthcare devices will be switched over.

How will it affect me/what do I need to do?

The good news is – your landline isn’t going anywhere and for most consumers and businesses, this change will be straightforward. In fact, many customers are already making the switch when they upgrade to full fibre broadband.

Your telecoms provider (Virgin MediaO2 or BT) should contact you before the switchover to check in and discuss what you need to do to make sure your service isn’t affected. However, we’re encouraging everyone to know what to expect.

If you have an internet connection, the change may be as simple as plugging your phone into your broadband router rather than the socket on the wall.

Telecare devices

Do you, or someone you know, depend on their landline for use of a telecare device connected to the phone line such as a fall monitor, lifeline or personal alarm? If yes, then please notify your communications provider (the people you pay for your landline) and check with your monitor/alarm provider whether your device is digitally enabled so that they can advise on how the switch might affect the service of the devices.

In an emergency

Digital landlines cannot carry a power connection, so in the event of a power cut they will not work.

If you have a mobile phone this can still be used, but if you’ve no other means of calling the emergency services your telecoms provider will offer a solution to allow calls to be made to emergency services.

For more information visit the gov.uk website