We’re working across the public and private sector to develop guidance and support for local government over the switchover period. Here you can find external resources for both councils and residents that might be useful.
- Ofcom have produced a 2023 version of their annual Connected Nations report to update on the availability of broadband and mobile services in the UK.
Digital phone switchover
- TechUK have produced a PDF guide for councils on the switchover.
- The Government has established the Public Switched Telephone Network charter that sets out a voluntary agreement between itself and communication providers to protect vulnerable people when they are moved onto digital services.
- MobileUK have produced a podcast episode interviewing Cllr Mark Hawthorne, our digital connectivity spokesperson, on the importance of mobile connectivity for local government.
- The House of Commons have published a research briefing addressing frequently asked questions about the digital phone switchover.
- Which? This PSTN report draws on insights from a survey of 4,958 UK adults across the UK, exploring current copper landline usage to understand how consumers will be affected by the switch off, and the risks that need to be managed through the migration process.
- TSA has developed guidance on the switchover as well as webinars. This page also includes an explainer video and podcast.
- Openreach has developed industry fact sheets, more FAQs and other resources to support anyone who sells, services or uses products that connect through the analogue telephone network.
- UKtelehealthcare has developed a webpage where you can see the latest stop-sell information as well as other resources.
- The Government has released guidance on UK transition from analogue to digital landlines - what the retirement of analogue phone lines, also known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), means for you.
- Which? has published guidance about digital voice and landline switchover for residents.
- Bionic have published a guide on the digital switchover and what to expect.
- AgeUK have answered frequently asked questions about what the switchover means for residents.
- Landlines Go Digital have a page with more information for residents about the switchover.
2G/3G switch off
- Ofcom has set out information and advice about the 2G and 3G switch off including expectations of mobile providers.
- Which? has an information page about what the end of 3G means for your mobile phone and how to tell if your phone is 4G compatible as well as up-to-date information about which mobile operators are turning off 2G and 3G and by when.
- Mobile UK has a useful information guide on the 2G and 3G switch off.
- Ofcom has published a what to expect guide on the switch off for residents.
Sample website text
What is the digital phone switchover?
The UK’s telephone network is changing. Between now and 2025 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 such as Virgin Media O2 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.
If you have other devices connected to your phone line, such as alarm systems, your alarm service provider might need to upgrade your device to make sure it is compatible. If you are unsure about how a device in your home or business might be affected, it is recommended you contact the equipment supplier or device manufacturer to find out whether it will still work on a digital phone line.
If yes, then please notify the communications provider now (the provider of this service) so that they can advise on how the switch might affect the service of the devices or home phone.
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.