Important Update on Changes to 0870 Services

Ofcom has now released their final decisions surrounding 0870 numbers. The changes come into force from 1st August 2009. These changes are going to affect the way your organisation receives calls to 0870 numbers and action is required on your part.

The main changes you need to be aware of are:

1. Ofcom decisions will result in a change to the current charging structure

2. Revenue Share arrangements will cease on 0870 numbers and it is likely to be replaced call delivery charges and/or service charge(s).

3. 4tel will announce a new pricing structure shortly (pending agreement of 0870 termination rates with BT)

4. These Ofcom-led changes will mean cheaper 0870 calls for your customers. This is likely to increase the number of potential customers contacting you.

What this means to you

We understand that the introduction of call delivery pence per minute charges will drive additional costs into your business, so we are keen to ensure you are well prepared for avoiding any unnecessary cost implications before the end of July.

Companies that continue to use 0870 numbers after 31st July 2009 will face increased costs in the form of charges (pence per minute and/or monthly charges).

Recommendations on changing your number

If your organisation does not wish to incur a call cost or wishes to derive revenue from inbound call traffic you need to decide on the course of action most appropriate to your business. To help you make this decision we have put together a website outlining the key issues and options to consider.

For more information please visit: www.0870numbers.info

If you wish to change your 0870 to an alternative Non Geographic Number range, such as 0844 or 0871 to continue to share call revenue, we recommend you make the transition as early as possible, maximising the time to migrate traffic with minimal effect on call volumes.

We also recommend that we continue to route your 0870 number as normal for an agreed period after your new number solution is implemented, and include a pre-recorded message advising customers of your new number. This will provide continuity to customers and suppliers that may not yet know the new number.

We're here to help

The cost and effort of changing numbers should not be underestimated. Our customer service and account management teams are on hand to provide you with the best possible advice, allowing you to make the best decision for your organisation.

We can help smooth the transition by providing helpful services like recorded announcements on existing numbers and presenting your new number on all your outbound calls*

If you do have any queries or would like to discuss any potential changes your business faces please do not hesitate to call us on 0800 505 3210.

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