Digital Landline Switch Over

Help someone you care about get ready for digital landlines

We all put off essential tasks, but this one won’t wait, especially if you have older or more vulnerable family members, friends or neighbours.

By January 2027, the old telephone network that traditional landlines work on will be switched off and replaced with a modern digital network.

The change is being led by the telecommunications industry, rather than Staffordshire County Council, but we want to make sure Staffordshire residents and businesses understand what is happening and know what they need to do.

Landline phones aren’t disappearing. For most people, the change will be straightforward. Once contacted by their telephone provider, they will usually need to unplug their landline phone from the wall socket and plug it into their broadband router, or other equipment supplied by their provider.

If someone doesn't currently have or want broadband, they should speak to their telephone provider about the options available to them.

For many people, however, a landline is much more than a telephone. It can be an important connection to family, friends and support services. Just one quick conversation could help someone understand what is changing and make sure they are prepared.

Does someone you know use telecare?

Some older or vulnerable people may need extra support, particularly if they use equipment connected to their telephone line, such as:

• a personal alarm or pendant

• a falls detector

• a telecare device

• other health, care or security equipment that uses the telephone line.

It is important that their telephone provider knows about their circumstances and any connected equipment before they are moved onto a digital landline.

Telecare equipment may also need to be checked or tested to make sure it works correctly with the new digital network. If you or someone you support uses a telecare service, contact both the telephone provider and the organisation that provides the telecare equipment if you are unsure what action is needed.

Don’t wait for the switch

Telephone providers will contact their customers about moving to a digital landline, so keep an eye out for letters, emails or other communications from them.

If you have an older or vulnerable family member, friend or neighbour, you can help by:

1. Check if they use a landline and whether anything else is connected to it, such as a personal alarm or telecare equipment.

2. Chat to them about the digital landline switchover and check whether their telephone provider has contacted them.

3. Support them to contact their telephone provider and, where relevant, their telecare provider, so they can get the right support before they switch.

Be aware of scams too.

The digital landline switchover itself should not be used as a reason for someone to pressure you into providing personal or financial information unexpectedly. If you're suspicious, stop and check who you're dealing with through a trusted contact method.

A small conversation can make a big difference. Help someone you care about feel safe, connected and independent as we move to digital landlines.

Read our FAQs to find out more