By Phonely
With less than a year to go before the UK’s traditional landline network is switched off, new research suggests that many over-50s still don’t know the change is coming.
And for households that rely on their landline every day, that lack of awareness could become a problem.
What’s happening to landlines?
By 31 January 2027, the UK’s copper-based Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) will be permanently retired. In simple terms, traditional analogue landlines will stop working in their current form.
Instead, calls will run through broadband using digital technology known as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).
Importantly, your home phone isn’t disappearing , but the system behind it is changing.
For many younger people who mainly use mobiles, this shift may feel minor. But for millions of older adults, especially those in rural areas, the landline remains a lifeline for:
- Staying in touch with family and friends
- Emergency contact
- Telecare alarms and monitoring systems
- Reliable communication in areas with patchy mobile signal
In some households, it is still the most trusted and dependable way to communicate.
Research reveals worrying awareness gap
A recent survey conducted by UK phone provider, Phonely found awareness remains surprisingly low.
When asked: “Are you making plans to switch over to VoIP ahead of the big landline switch-off?” the responses were:
- 58.7% did not know about the switch-off
- 14.8% plan to delay switching until forced
- 4.8% say it sounds too complicated
- Only 21.6% have already switched
That means nearly six in ten over-50s may not yet realise that their current landline system will be retired.
With the deadline set for January 2027, there are concerns that waiting too long could lead to unnecessary stress or disruption.
Why waiting could cause problems
While there has already been an extension to the deadline, industry experts warn that the delay may have created a false sense of security.
If large numbers of households leave it until late 2026 to act, we could see:
- Equipment shortages
- Installation backlogs
- Delays in rural areas
- Increased pressure on providers
Bryn Thompson, Director at Phonely, explains:
“The extension to 2027 has created a false sense of security. The fact that nearly six in ten over-50s still don’t know this is happening should concern everyone involved. If the majority wait until they’re forced to move, we risk chaos at the eleventh hour.”
For many readers, the key message isn’t to panic,
but to be informed and prepared.
Concerns for older residents
Charities working with older people say communication around the change needs to improve, particularly for those who are not online.
Dan Skipper, Chief Executive Officer of Age UK Norwich, said:
“These changes prompt many questions for residents, and a lack of awareness may create unnecessary concern or worry, particularly for older people who are not online and rely on their landline for social connection and safety. Speak to your telephone provider to understand your options for switchover, and to make sure they’re aware if you have a telecare alarm or if you may need additional support.”
That final point is especially important. If you use:
- A personal alarm pendant
- A fall detection device
- A monitored security system
- A health monitoring device
You should inform your provider before any switchover takes place, so compatibility can be checked.
What should you do now?
If you have any concerns about how the landline switchover may affect you, here are some simple steps you can take:
- Contact your current phone provider
Ask whether your service is still running on PSTN and what their switchover plan looks like.
- Check your broadband connection
Digital landlines require broadband. If you don’t currently have it, your provider will discuss your options.
- Mention anyadditionalsupport needs
If you rely on telecare, have mobility issues, or feel uncertain about the process, tell your provider. Extra support should be available.
- Don’tignore letters
Many providers are writing directly to customers in stages. Make sure to read any communications carefully.
Reassurance: the phone itself isn’t going
It’s worth repeating, this is a technical change behind the scenes. You will still be able to have a home phone, keep your number, and make and receive calls.
For many households, the transition is straightforward once arrangements are made.
The key risk isn’t the technology, it’s lack of awareness.
Staying safe from scam calls during the transition
Periods of change can sometimes create opportunities for scammers. If someone phones unexpectedly claiming you must “switch immediately” or demands payment on the spot, be cautious.
Only deal directly with your existing provider or a trusted, established company, and never feel pressured into making a decision during an unexpected call.
UK-based digital voice specialists such as Phonely provide information about the switchover and digital landline services. Speaking directly to a provider can help clarify what the change means for your home and what steps, if any, you need to take.
You can find more information at: https://www.phonely.co.uk