Analogue Switch Off

Some people may already have a router that is compatible with this new digital fibre service, then they may not have to do anything, however for many, it will mean that they will need a new router or a first router for a line that does not already have one.

People will then be given a date by their telephone company for the switchover and on that day all the sockets in a home or business will stop working on the traditional landline service.

Everything will then be transferred to the master socket in a premises and a router will need to be plugged into that socket, whether people want to continue using that line for a voice call or for devices like alarms etc. If people do not carry out this change, they will lose their service.

In most cases, this changeover will be simple. While some phones might require an adaptor, many will continue working (particularly Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telephony or cordless phones) – where individuals will just have to plug the phone into their router or a new socket.

Older phones might need to be replaced. It is likely that communication providers will offer a new model, but it might come at a cost. Some people might need a new or upgraded router which should be supplied by their service provider.

Once set up, the phone will work in much the same way it always has. Householders will be able to keep the same phone number and will still hear a dial tone.

For those opting to migrate to a digital phone line without upgrading to full fibre, then there won’t be any change to the physical infrastructure. The service will work using the wiring that’s already in place – it will be a case of connecting the phone via the router.

It is important to note that individuals should never be charged simply to move to Digital Voice services. The public and businesses need to be made aware that scammers have attempted to exploit the move to Digital Voice as an opportunity to extract money from people or convince them they need to share personal information for their burglar alarm or healthcare device to continue operate.

Those who currently only have a landline will not be forced to pay for broadband services that they do not want or need. Their digital phone service will work using a special dedicated broadband connection and should not cost any more than what they pay now.

The Regulator Ofcom will be keeping a close eye on the progress made by phone providers to help ensure all customers, particularly those who are vulnerable, are supported through the transition. The UK government has also called for phone providers to protect vulnerable customers and ensure they have access to emergency services during power outages.

The onus is generally on providers to identify customers who are reliant on their landline or are vulnerable. However, if you have concerns there are things you can do too, particularly if you rely on your landline or have a landline-dependent Telecare/Community Care Alarm device.

A key step is to make your provider aware of your concerns before you’re migrated. Orkney Islands Council are working closely on a national programme to upgrade to digital Telecare/Community Care Alarm devices, but this process takes time and safety of service users is paramount. The Telecare/Community Care Alarm team will provide you with updates and keep you informed of what this means for you as a customer and will be in touch on a case-by-case basis when migration is ready. The digital transition is in the early stages. Please do not move across to a digital line before contacting Orkney Islands Council.

If you require any further information and have a Telecare/Community Care Alarm device, please contact Orkney Islands Council’s Telecare/Community Care Alarm team on 01856 873535 ext. 2635.

BT have identified five groups that are considered to be vulnerable.

• Customers with no mobile phone signal in the home.
• Customers with additional support needs or a disability.
• Customers with telecare/community care alarms and pendants.
• Elderly customers over 75.
• Landline only customers, who do not have broadband with any provider.

If you meet any of the criteria above, you should contact your telephone company and request that you be identified as a vulnerable customer.