ANALOGUE SWITCH OFF

The UKs telephone network is changing.  In 2024, most telephone providers will be moving their customers from old analogue landlines over to new upgraded landline services using digital technology.

The decision to switch was made by the telephone industry’s large companies that own the telephony infrastructure rather than Staffordshire County Council, but as a community-led organisation, we’re making sure everyone knows about it. The switch will support residents’ and business’ needs for years to come and will make a big difference to the amount of carbon produced every year in Staffordshire.

Don't worry - landlines themselves are not going anywhere. The changes are:

1) all calls will use the internet (rather than the old copper lines) and will need a broadband connection. Don't worry if you don't have one or both of these. Your landline provider has a responsibility to provide a system that will work.

2) you will need to unplug your landline from the telephone socket on the wall and plug it into the back of your broadband router (or a hub that your telephone provider will provide you with). You will have plenty of notice before having to make this change.

3) There are still options for a landline only service, if you just want to use the phone.

Your telecoms provider, such as Virgin Media, 02 or BT will contact you before the switch over in your area – so make sure you keep a look out for their communication to you but watch out for scams. Your line will not just be switched off without due notice and the switch itself is free. Remember - the council or contractors will never ask for personal or financial information over the phone. Contact Action Fraud if you are at all suspicious. Read more about scams prevention here.

If you use care technology, such as telecare services, please don't worry. The government have made an agreement with the telephone providers to make sure that your lifesaving button continues to work, or you have an alternative that does work, before any switchover takes place. Read more about the protections that people using telecare devices now have below.

Find out more with our Frequently Asked Questions below.

Find out more