Easier switching process will help customers save money

An easier way to switch telephone and broadband services is good news for consumers says Citizens Advice as Ofcom announces single switching process.

Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy said:

“Some people will have been paying over the odds for their broadband and landline services because the switching process has been too cumbersome and complicated; putting them off shopping around for a cheaper price.  An easier way to get a better deal on your telephone and broadband services is most welcome for consumers.  

“With around 7800 complaints about landlines reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service a year, a more simple switching service will not only help people save money but it will be easier to escape the clutches of a company that’s not up to scratch.  The new measures will also protect people from being switched without their permission, known as slammed.

“Ofcom now needs to work towards extending this system to mobile phone and cable services.”

Top 7 problems reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service about telephone landlines between April 2012 and March 2013.

Notes to editors:

1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more see the Citizens Advice website.
2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality.
3. To find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk. You can also get advice online at adviceguide.org.uk
4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers
5. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.3 million clients on 5.4 million problems from October 2013 to September 2014. For full 2013/2014  service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends
6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 3,000 service outlets across England and Wales.