Nearly half of UK landline users are unaware of the impending switch-off of analogue phone services, despite the January 2027 deadline. The UK's traditional phone network is set to be decommissioned in the new year as services transition to digital technology, meaning households with landline phones need to adapt to internet-based calls.
Survey reveals lack of awareness
A survey of 2,000 adults who have a landline telephone at home revealed that while 53% use it weekly, 45% don't fully grasp what they need to do ahead of the switch-off to ensure their phone continues to function.
Landlines remain crucial for many, with one in three depending on theirs to stay connected with friends and family, as well as healthcare providers. The majority of respondents said their landline remains an essential part of their household, with 17% stating it's cheaper for overseas family or friends to call compared to a mobile phone.
Raising awareness with a TV chef
The study was commissioned by Community Fibre, which provides broadband and calls packages that enable customers across London and the southeast to smoothly transition to a full fibre home phone service. TV chef Rustie Lee, a regular landline user, has teamed up with the broadband provider to raise awareness about the change.
She said: "The landline switch-off is one of the biggest changes to our home phones in years, so if you haven't switched yet, there are a few things you need to do. My top tip is this: don't just accept the first deal you're offered by your current provider. Take a moment to shop around, especially look at the newer fibre broadband providers as they will often save you a lot of money."
Impact on other devices
The landline transition could also affect other devices in the home. These include alarms designed to help elderly or vulnerable people live independently by connecting them to a 24/7 emergency response centre, as well as some home security systems.
Rustie added: "If you use a telecare alarm or other devices that use a phone line, check with the providers of those services if they'll be affected too, rather than your phone company."
Peter Rampling, a broadband expert at Community Fibre, said: "The switch from analogue to digital phone services is a nationwide change that is affecting millions of households. But unfortunately, many of those needing to switch may not be offered the best available full fibre service by their existing provider, so it's important to explore what else is out there before committing."
"Whether you're sorting your own line or helping someone else to do it, shopping around and switching provider makes absolute sense with the cost-of-living crisis and can save money and effort in both the short and the long run."
