Ofcom’s One Touch Switch – the new, simpler way to change landline and broadband provider – has been used by over 1.6 million people in its first year.
Launched a year ago, the process removes the hassle of contacting your old provider. You just speak to your new provider and they handle everything – co-ordinating the switch, keeping you updated, and sending all the key details.
It’s available to all landline and broadband customers across networks, with 300+ providers signed up. Beyond convenience, it also brings money-saving protections: no notice-period charges past your switch date, and automatic compensation if there’s a delay or a loss of service lasting more than one working day.
Ofcom’s Cristina Luna Esteban says: “It’s never been simpler to switch, so we’re pleased that millions of customers have taken advantage of One Touch Switch in the last year and got themselves a new deal.
“But there are still many customers who are out of contract and could be missing out on savings. So, we’re urging people to check their contract, compare the offers out there and if changing provider gives them the best deal to switch and save.”
Way back in 2021 Ofcom research found that 41% of people were put off switching over their broadband because of the hassle of dealing with two – their existing and new – providers. And another 43% were put off because switching took too long. These consumers were choosing to bear the brunt of increasing prices rather than face the difficulty of changing over.
After multiple delays – mainly due to providers working out processes and finalising the more complicated small print – since the 2021 plan, the hassle-free switchover system was finally put into place in September 2024.
