Digital Phone Switchover

The UK’s telephone network is changing. You may have heard that landline phones are being replaced; it's sometimes called the Big Switch or the Digital Phone Switchover. Broadband and phone companies are leading this change.

On this page, you can find out more about how the changes affect you and Torus.

What is the Digital Phone Switchover?

Telephone providers are upgrading the landline network, also known as the public switched telephone network (PSTN), from analogue to digital or Internet Protocol (IP). This means that voice telephone calls will be carried in the same way as data over a broadband connection.

Between now and January 2027, most telephone providers will move their customers from their old analogue landlines to the new, upgraded digital landline services. It also means services that rely on the old landline system, such as home phones and healthcare devices, will switch over to the new digital technology.

How will the Digital Phone Switchover affect me?

These changes will affect everyone who has a landline phone service or a personal telecare device. For most people, the move should be straightforward. Digital landlines use an internet connection to make and receive calls. You will need an internet connection at home to use the new landline digital system.

Digital phone lines require an active broadband connection. If you rely on an analogue landline, we advise that you check with your network provider.

If you don't have broadband through your network provider, such as BT, Virgin Media, or O2, should let you know. They can supply a connection to support the new digital landline system. You shouldn't pay extra for this if you don't choose to take up a broadband service.

Some network providers may no longer offer landline telephone service. This means you might need to consider switching to a provider that offers a landline. This may cost more than your current contract.

If you already have a broadband connection, your phone will use this for the new digital landline system. Most providers will contact you directly with instructions on how and when your service will change, and you just need to follow them.

If you have alarms and personal telecare devices that Torus doesn’t supply or look after, you are responsible for making sure that they work after the switchover. You may need to contact their provider to check if the device is compatible with digital telephone services and arrange an upgrade if required.

You should be cautious of unexpected calls or visitors claiming to offer switchover support. Official communications will always come through authenticated channels such as your telecom provider.

How does the Digital Phone Switchover affect Torus?

While the Digital Phone Switchover affects a wide range of essential services in our homes and schemes, Torus is carrying out a major programme of service upgrades to ensure all essential systems are digitally compatible ahead of the switchover.

This programme includes things like:

Warden Call Services.
Services such as door entry systems, passenger lifts, fire alarms, CCTV, and intruder alarms.
Detailed reviews of sheltered and extra care schemes.
Engaging with alarm receiving centres.
Consulting with specialist service providers.