As the UK prepares to retire its analogue telephone network in 2027, new research reveals that a majority of users remain unaware of the impending changes and the potential impact on essential services, highlighting the urgent need for widespread awareness and preparedness.
The UK’s analogue telephone network is moving into its last phase, with the Public Switched Telephone Network due to be retired on 31 January 2027. But new research commissioned by Community Fibre suggests that a large proportion of users still do not understand what the migration involves, or what they need to do to keep their voice services working. The survey found that 45% of respondents were unclear about the next steps, while 53% had taken no action at all.
That lack of preparation matters because the change affects more than ordinary home phones. The PSTN also underpins telecare alarms, emergency pendants, security systems and some payment terminals, all of which may stop working unless they are checked, replaced or reconfigured. Only 12% of those surveyed said they had verified whether connected equipment would remain functional after the switch-off, leaving a clear risk for households that depend on analogue devices. Independent summaries of the same research reported similar figures, reinforcing the scale of the awareness gap.
The findings also underline how much people still depend on landlines for resilience. Community Fibre said 49% of respondents regarded a landline as important in an emergency, while more than a third said it gave them peace of mind and 36% relied on it when mobile reception was poor. Nearly half did not realise other devices could be affected until they took part in the survey, and many of those who lacked confidence said they had not seen enough information or were unsure what changes were required. In practical terms, the migration to digital voice means households must remember that service now depends on both broadband and power, which creates a different failure mode during outages.
Peter Rampling, broadband expert at Community Fibre, said the switch is affecting millions of households and argued that customers should look beyond their current provider if they are not being offered the best full-fibre option. His comments reflect a wider industry message: users should audit every device connected to the telephone line, check compatibility with their provider, and confirm what backup arrangements are available for emergencies. Guidance from telecoms and switching advisers also stresses that telecare users, and anyone with alarms or health pendants, should speak to equipment suppliers well before the deadline to avoid disruption.
Disclaimer: This content is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to exercise their own judgement, conduct due diligence, or consult a qualified expert before acting on any information provided.
