The UK’s home phone (landline) service is getting an upgrade. The transition has already started and will continue over the next few years. Soon, most landline calls will be made over a broadband line.

The switchover should be straightforward for most people. Your phone number will remain the same, and most handsets work fine with the new system. However, there are some steps you need to take to make sure your landline services continue to work. Your phone company will inform you ahead of the migration, but preparing now can make the transition smoother for you.

Supporting Communities is working with BT to help inform residents about what’s happening and what help is available to anyone who needs it. Our digital team has been on the road this summer and autumn, visiting libraries and community groups all over Northern Ireland to get the word out about the change and to make sure older and vulnerable people know where to go for assistance should they need it.