The way we communicate is changing are you ready for the Digital Switch Over?
BT is notifying customers in Penrith and across Cumbria that they will be switching home phone service to new Digital Voice services in the next few months.
As part of the preparations for the digital switch over BT are coming to Penrith in January, with a team to answer any questions you might have or provide more information you may want on the switch to digital, they will tell you what Digital Voice is, why the change is necessary, and what it means for you.
BT are holding a drop-in event on the 4th and 5th of January between 10:00 and 16:00 at: Penrith Library.
BT and other telecoms providers announced a few years ago the time has come for the UK's entire phone network to undergo a major revamp with the Public Service Telephone Network switch off planned to be completed by December 2025.
Telectoms providers have said the existing landline network has become old and outdated. This is why it's being retired across the UK, by all providers, and upgraded to a digital service. All UK home and business phone services will from the 1st of January 2026 be delivered via Digital Voice that runs on a broadband connection.
BT like other providers will be starting to move customers in Penrith and across Cumbria over to Digital Voice within the next few months, but it may take longer 12 months or more before everyone is switched over.
Providers have said that you'll be able to use your own phone and keep your number when you move over to Digital Voice.
However, some telecare and burglar alarms might not work with Digital Voice. If you use these services, it’s recommend getting in touch with your telecare or alarm monitoring provider to check your equipment will still work properly after the switch.
With Digital Voice services if there's a power cut or your broadband's down, you won't be able to make calls using Digital Voice, including 999 calls. You could still use a mobile. But, if you don't have a mobile or are in an area with no mobile signal, BT has said its team will support customers and help provide a solution.
You can find out more information about Digital Switch Over, by visiting https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-transition-from-analogue-to-digital-landlines
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