The big switch off – what independent opticians need to know

Adam Underwood, Director at AMA Business Communications and SightCare’s preferred partner for internet and telephony services, talks to us about the UK’s upcoming telecoms modernisation — cutting through the noise to explain what’s changing, why it matters, and how to prepare your practice for the transition.

I regularly speak to independent practice owners who are hearing about the “big switch off” but aren’t sure what it really means for them. Some have been told it’s urgent. Others have been told to do nothing. And many are receiving mixed messages from their current providers – often wrapped in a bit of scaremongering.

So in this blog, I want to give you the facts, cut through the confusion, and help you feel confident about the decisions you’ll need to make over the next year.

What is the big switch off?

The UK’s long-established analogue telephone network is being permanently retired. This is the system that supports traditional landlines, older handsets, fax machines, and certain types of CCTV and payment terminals.

The original switch-off date of December 2025 has now been pushed back by around 13 months – but the transition has already started, and analogue services are being withdrawn area by area.

So, while 2027 sounds deceptively distant, in practical terms, now is the right time to prepare.

Who will be affected?

In short: almost every business. If your practice uses any equipment connected to an old-style phone line, you’ll need to migrate it to a digital alternative. This can include:

  • Traditional analogue handsets
  • Fax machines
  • Some card-payment terminals
  • Certain security or CCTV systems

This isn’t just a phone-system issue — it’s an infrastructure change that touches multiple areas of your practice.

What are the benefits?

Although the switch is mandatory, it does bring real advantages:

  • Clearer, high-definition calling
  • More reliable connectivity
  • Modern features you simply can’t access on analogue lines
  • Potential cost savings compared to legacy systems
  • And importantly — you can keep your existing number

Moving now, rather than at the last minute, gives you the biggest choice and minimises stress.

My concern – and what I want every practice to know

One of the reasons I’m so passionate about spreading awareness is that many telecoms providers are presenting this change in a way that pressures practices into long, expensive contracts without fully explaining the situation. Worst still, many providers are not even confirming the reasons behind the change, but are upgrading the required elements, without presenting any choices.

This shouldn’t be a sales trap. It should be an informed decision.

My aims – both with this blog and the upcoming webinar – are simple:

  1. To make opticians fully aware of what’s happening and when
  2. To give you the knowledge you need to make the right choice for your business
  3. To ensure you’re not pushed into a renewal or upgrade by default
  4. To offer free, no-obligation guidance if you want to discuss your specific set-up

If you go on to work with AMA, that’s great — but if you don’t, you’ll still walk away with clarity, and knowledge that can protect your business.

Practical steps you can take now

Here’s what I recommend to every independent practice preparing for the big switch off:

  1. Audit your systems; note down every device currently running on analogue lines. (If you’re not sure, join our next webinar on the 22 January for guidance and help)
  2. Check your broadband; digital voice requires a stable data connection — now is a good time to review it, and to ensure it is fit for purpose.
  3. Look at contract dates; many businesses get caught out because the switch coincides with an automatic renewal. Take control and know when your next renewal date is.
  4. Ask questions before signing anything; if a provider is pushing you to act quickly or without explanation, take a step back, and assess your options.
  5. Get expert advice; even a short conversation can clarify your options and save you from costly mistakes. We’re happy to help any practice owner that’s looking for help, guidance or advice.

Want to understand what the big switch off means for your practice?

Join me for a free SightCare webinar

📅 Thursday 22 January 2026
⏰ Time 6.30 pm

In this session, I’ll walk you through:

  • The real timeline and what’s changing
  • How to avoid being locked into unnecessary contracts
  • What choices you genuinely have as an independent practice
  • How to prepare so the transition is smooth, simple, and cost-effective

You’ll come away with clear, practical advice – and if you’d like to discuss your individual set-up afterwards, AMA is happy to provide free, no-obligation guidance, whether you choose to work with us or not.

Book your place now – it’s free for all SightCare members

Register here.

the big switch off

Back to blog