‘There is real danger’: landline phone users voice fears over digital switchover
The UK is transitioning from traditional copper landlines to digital voice services by January 2027, raising concerns among rural and vulnerable users about communication during power outages. Critics, including the campaign group Silver Voices, warn that the current backup solutions are inadequate and are calling for the deadline to be extended to 2030. While providers like BT offer support and alternative options, many users remain at risk of being disconnected when power fails.
- ▪The UK's public switched telephone network (PSTN) is being switched off in January 2027, replaced by digital voice services using broadband connections.
- ▪Over 100,000 people have signed Silver Voices' petition calling for the switchover deadline to be extended to 2030 due to safety concerns.
- ▪BT offers free in-home assistance and backup power solutions for vulnerable customers, including those reliant on telecare or landline-only services.
- ▪In remote areas like the Scottish Highlands, power outages can last over 40 hours, exceeding the capacity of standard five-hour backup batteries.
- ▪Ofcom's 2025 Connected Nations report states that more complex customer migrations make up a growing proportion of remaining PSTN users.
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A BT Openreach engineer works on a telephone pole in rural Norfolk. The UK’s landline network is being replaced by digital technology. Photograph: SJ Images/AlamyView image in fullscreenA BT Openreach engineer works on a telephone pole in rural Norfolk. The UK’s landline network is being replaced by digital technology. Photograph: SJ Images/AlamyConsumer affairs‘There is real danger’: landline phone users voice fears over digital switchoverRural dwellers reveal failings in backup plans, as campaigners call for deadline to be extended from 2027 to 2030Zoe WoodSat 2 May 2026 02.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on Google“Every time there is a power failure I lose all means of communication with the outside world,” says Robert Dewar of life in a remote village in the Scottish Highlands since…
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