In January 2027 the landline telephone network using copper wire will be switched off. This is not something that the Parish Council (or Cornwall Council) has any control over, but it is something that all residents should be aware of.
If you, or friends or family members, currently use a traditional landline phone (plugged in at the wall, using the old copper wire network), then it is important to take action now, to prepare for the changeover.
Click on this link to download a handy information sheet we have produced, to help check how you will be affected and the steps you can take to be ready:
https://www.stburyanlamorna-pc.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Telephone-Landline-changes.pdf
If you cannot download a pdf, the wording of the leaflet is set out below.
Telephone Landline changes in January 2027
In January 2027 the telephone network using copper wire will be switched off.
The alternative telephone connections are mobile phone or internet phone (VOIP). Many of the telephone providers will have contacted or will be in contact with residents about making this change.
There are three key issues that you will need to consider to ensure you can maintain a telephone connection after January 2027.
- Do you have a mobile phone network signal?
- An internet phone needs a power supply for the router which connects you to the internet to work.
- Do you have medical or personal alarm devices which are dependent on a telephone connection?
To make sure you are ready for the changeover, below is a list of things you, or a friend, can do.
Start Preparing Now Do not wait to be contacted by a phone provider. If you have not already made the switchover, call your phone provider now and ask them when your area is due to change.
Check if your current phone will still work with the new system.
Some older phones which currently plug straight into the wall
socket may not work on the new system or need an adapter. If this
is the case, then providers may offer a replacement phone or an
adapter.
If you have a medical device or a personal alarm, check they will
still work.
If you use a pendant alarm, fall detector, emergency button, or other
telecare device, contact the provider before any changes happen.
Some devices may need updating or replacing, even if they have
been recently provided.
Power Cuts
Older telephones rely on the telephone line for a power supply. After
the switchover, telephones will use the mains power from your
home, which means you will lose the internet coneection during a
power cut. Where there is a mobile signal you should still be able to
make calls on your mobile phone.
Ofcom provide a guide to protecting access to emergency
organisations during a power cut: Protecting access to emergency
organisation
Power Backup
Solar Powered Backup
During a power cut, homes equipped with solar panels may still
have a battery backup which will switch in to maintain supply for a
time. Not all solar systems have this, so it is worth checking.
Battery Backup
There are many battery systems available which can be used during
a power cut to maintain your telephone and internet connection.
Providers may offer a free battery backup for your internet
connection if you rely on your telephone for medical devices or
emergencies.
Important contact phone numbers
Many people rely on their phones for their important phone
numbers and no longer have a written address book. Make sure you
have a written list of all the important numbers you may need in an
emergency.
Mobile phones
If you live in an area where there is a mobile phone signal then it is
important that you keep a mobile phone fully charged just in case of
a power cut.
For emergency purposes, a basic mobile rather than a smart phone
could be a better choice. This type of phone tends to work even
when the mobile signal is weak. They also can be purchased with
large buttons making them easier to use.
Ask for help
You do not have to deal with this alone. Your provider should offer
support.
Talk to providers of medical and emergency devices
Talk to organisations such as Age UK. Their website has a section
devoted to the switchover. Click here to go to the website
Preparing early can help avoid disruption and give you peace of
mind.
