116 European helpline numbers in the UK

Ofcom today confirmed plans to introduce pan-European 116 helpline phone numbers in the UK and launched the selection process to allocate the first three 116 numbers.

By introducing 116 numbers, anyone travelling around Europe will be able to use these services by calling the same six-digit memorable number. At the moment many helpline and hotline numbers differ across Europe making it difficult for visitors to find the right number when they need help or advice.

These numbers have been reserved across the European Union for three designated purposes:

• 116 000 for missing children hotlines;
• 116 111 for child helplines; and
• 116 123 for emotional support helplines.

Calls to these three numbers will be free of charge in the UK, whether made from a fixed line, mobile or public phone box.

Ofcom has launched the selection process for allocating these three numbers and is encouraging all interested service providers to apply. Ofcom, advised by independent panels set up by the Government, will choose suitable organisations to allocate these numbers to.

Ofcom expects the numbers to be allocated by the end of this summer and in use early next year.

Ofcom will consult on the proposed arrangements for other 116 numbers when they are reserved by the European Commission.

Further information, including Ofcom’s statement and guidelines on the selection process for the first three 116 numbers, can be found at:

http://www.ofcom.org.uk/consult/condocs/116/116statement

Source: Ofcom, 20th February 2009

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