Digital Switchover
Summer 2025: Is your home phone ready to go digital?
The UK's phone network is shifting to digital landlines, meaning calls will go through broadband.
BT has announced the scheduled switchover for the North-East is Summer 2025.
While most residents and businesses will switch this year, BT has extended the deadline to 2027 for vulnerable residents. Your provider will notify you before the change, either by letter, text, or email.
Beware of scams
Your telephone provider is unlikely to ask for money to switch you to a digital line. Be aware of fraud. If you receive any requests for money do not engage any further and report it on the Action Fraud website or call 0300 123 2040.
What should I do?
To spread the word and raise awareness about the digital switchover you can download a flyer (PDF, 570 KB) which explains about the Digital Switchover, what the benefits are and what you should ask your telephone provider. There is a poster you can download (PDF, 449 KB) to display on your local community notice board, which warns others about criminals scamming people.
Vulnerable residents need to take action
What vulnerable means
If any of the following apply to you or someone you know, additional support may be offered. Please contact your telephone provider if you:
- are over 75
- use a personal alarm or healthcare device
- do not use broadband at home
- live in an area with no mobile signal or, do not have a mobile phone device
- have additional needs
- have concerns or questions about what you need to do to make sure your phone line isn't affected
How to register as vulnerable
If you or a family member are vulnerable, dial 150 from your landline to notify your telephone provider. If 150 doesn't work, use the number on your bill. Inform your provider that you need extra support due to vulnerability. They will guide you on the next steps and provide the necessary assistance and equipment.
How we can help
Last year, we attended events across Sunderland and hosted several in partnership with Digital Voice to help residents understand what they need to do to prepare for the end of analogue phone lines. Please email smartcity@sunderland.gov.uk if you'd like us to attend your event next.
You can also find information from
NB: Links to external organizations and websites. We bear no responsibility for the actions, content, or services provided by these organisations, and the inclusion of these links does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of their products or services.
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