We’ve covered this story before and you may well have seen it covered in the news, but it’s a story that’s worth repeating.
Telephone landlines are changing and that the UK’s telephone network is going digital. These changes will affect everyone who has a landline they’d like to keep using. You needn’t worry: for most people, the switch is incredibly simple. Here’s what you need to know and how you can help friends or family members who may be concerned.
Earlier this year, BT and Neighbourhood Watch partnered to help communities navigate this change, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas, across England and Wales. With 250 events planned, our volunteers are busy raising awareness, answering questions and supporting the switch.
However, there’s still work to be done to ensure everyone, particularly vulnerable people, know about the switch, what it means to them, what they need to do to prepare – and how you can help them.
That’s why we’re looking for your help in spreading the word. Here are four things to know about the switchover – and how you can help your loved ones: Now is the time to inform and educate: ensure family members and friends understand the switch, why it’s happening, and how to prepare. Households will receive at least four weeks’ notice before switching.
1. It’s easy – and comes with added benefits, too: switching is simple, requires no extra cost, and includes features like spam call blocking for enhanced security. BT’s Enhanced Call Protect prevents around 20,000 scam calls a day.
2. Notify us of their circumstances: if you or someone you know has additional needs, a Telecare device or healthcare pendant, or feels they need extra support with the switchover, contact your home phone provider. Free engineer visits and battery backups are available to ensure a smooth transition.
3. What if they don’t have broadband? A dedicated landline service will be provided to maintain traditional landline functionality without requiring broadband.
Have questions or need help? Visit the Connected Together website or if you’re a BT customer, call 0330 1234 150.
