Families across Staffordshire are being encouraged to help older friends, relatives and neighbours to say safe connected and independent by checking in with them about their landline.
Landlines across the UK are going digital. The existing analogue network, which has supported phone and broadband services for decades, is being retired and will be switched off in January 2027.
This change will affect anyone who has a landline they want to keep using. It will help make the UK’s landline services fit for the future, with potential benefits such as clearer calls and improved protection from nuisance and scam calls. Whilst this is a national initiative, the county council is supporting the programme by ensuring its residents are fully informed and can signpost them to further help.
For most people, the switch will be simple. If they already have broadband, they will usually just need to plug their phone into their broadband router instead of the wall socket.
Some people may need extra support, including those who use telecare equipment such as pendant alarms or fall detectors, or anyone with specific requirements. Their landline provider will contact them to make sure they get the right help. It is important they respond when their provider gets in touch, so they can stay connected and avoid any disruption to their service.
For people who do not have an internet connection, a landline-only option will be available.
Martin Rogerson, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Care, said:
For many older people, a landline is their connection to family and friends, a source of reassurance and, in some cases, a vital link to emergency support. That's why we're asking people to take a few minutes to check in with parents, grandparents, neighbours and friends.
It’s vitally important to ensure that their landlines keep running smoothly. The system is being upgraded to newer digital technology that offers more safety features, like scam-call screening, and even offers the option for 3-way conversations.
Helping someone understand what's changing, checking if they have device such as a pendant alarm or falls detector, and encouraging them to contact their provider could help keep them connected and independent.”
Most customers will be contacted directly by their telephone provider up to four weeks before they need to switch, but residents who use telecare equipment are being urged not to wait and contact their providers directly.
Many devices will work with digital services, but some may need checking, upgrading or reconnecting to ensure they continue to operate reliably.
The council is also reminding people to be alert to potential scams linked to the switchover. Criminals may target older and vulnerable residents by claiming they need to make a payment or provide bank details to avoid losing their phone service.
Martin added:
One of the most important messages we want people to remember is that the switchover itself is free.
No legitimate provider, council service or health organisation will ever ask for bank details to upgrade a phone line. If something doesn't seem right, stop, take a moment and seek advice before sharing any personal information."
When people are contacted by their landline provider, they shouldn’t delay.
BT customers can also find out more information on their website www.bt.com/connected-together. They can also register to book onto free customer webinars and hear directly from the experts. Whether people are preparing for their own switch or helping a friend or family member, BT experts will explain what's changing, what they need to do, and the support available every step of the way.
People can learn more from Staffordshire County Council by visiting the Gigafast Staffordshire webpage.
