Important changes to charging for Service Calls
OFCOM are changing the way that calls to 084, 087, 09 and 118 (Service Numbers) numbers are charged to make this clearer and less confusing for customers.
Currently the cost of calling these numbers varies a lot with some costing pence and some costing pounds, the new rules are being introduced to make charges clearer before customers dial, and avoid bill shocks.
From 1st July the call will be split into 2 separate charges
The “Access” charge is payable to your phone company (FourteenIP) with the Service charge being set by the organisation that is being called. BOTH of these charges are a price per minute fee.
For more information go to http://www.ukcalling.info/cost-calling to check what charges apply to your service numbers.
Charging information must be clearly and prominently displayed on all Company advertising, pricing and any place where the telephone numbers are advertised. (Website, marketing literature, promotional offers etc) to ensure charging is transparent.
Additionally calls to 0800 numbers will now be free from landlines and mobiles, and the telephone number dialled CANNOT be displayed on invoices, or itemisation.
Further details of the changes and rationale can be found in the OFCOM statement: Simplifying Non-Geographic Numbers
