Implications of digital landline switch-over to be discussed

As residents in north Powys face moving to voice over internet landlines, a number of drop-in sessions have been arranged to help them understand the implications.

The digital landlines do not carry power which means many residents will not be able to contact emergency services via the landline if their electricity is cut off.

Telephone providers are moving most landline customers to upgraded services using digital technology between now and 2025, including many living in Powys.

Powys County Council is urging residents to find out more. In a statement it said: "Customers of BT, EE and Plusnet, will be asked to make the switch to digital this spring BT has said, but if you have any questions about this there will be chances to ask them at one of four drop-in sessions due to be held in the county in April.

"This could include queries about how you would manage to contact the emergency services in the event of a power cut or what to do if you have a telecare device that is connected to a phone line."

The BT Digital Voice engagement events:

Morrisons Newtown, Pool Road, Newtown, SY16 3AH, Wednesday and Thursday, 3 and 4 April, 10am – 4pm.

Morrisons Welshpool, Berriew Street, Welshpool, SY21 7SS, Friday 5 April, 10am – 4pm.

BT announced its schedule for the upgrade in the autumn. EE and Plusnet are part of the same group of companies.

The statement added: "Some Powys residents will have already moved to a digital landline, if they have upgraded to full fibre broadband, but if not, you should be contacted by your provider before they switch you over.

"If you or someone you know depends on their landline or uses a telecare device connected to a phone line such as a pendant, fall detector, or personal lifeline alarm, you should notify the provider of this service so that they can advise on how the switch could affect you."

It added: "If you are unsure about how a device in your home or business might be affected, it is recommended you contact the equipment supplier or manufacturer to find out whether it will still work on a digital phone line. Digital landlines cannot carry a power connection so, in the event of a power cut they will not work. 

"Mobile phones can still be used but if you have no other means of calling the emergency services, your telephone provider should offer a solution to allow calls to be made in an emergency."