Ofcom has now released their final decisions surrounding 0870 numbers. The changes come into force in 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 with a call delivery charge
3. Redstone will announce a new pricing structure shortly (pending agreement of 0870 termination rates with BT)

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.

If you wish to continue your 0870 service then you will be required to create a credit payment account with Redstone. In order to continue to provide you with your 0870 service Redstone must receive and approve a Direct Debit Application. Contact our Inbound Specialist team on 0845 200 0870 to request your Direct Debit Form

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 a simple fact sheet outlining the key issues and options to consider. Click here to download the Redstone 0870 Fact Sheet.

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 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.

Redstone are 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. 

Redstone 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 0845 200 0870.