http://online.ogcbuyingsolutions.gov.uk/bcm/ICT/Networks/Newsroom/0300numbers/

0300 numbers

0300 telephone numbers are non-geographic numbers specifically introduced for the public sector and were launched by Ofcom in March 2007 as an alternative to standard 08XX  business phone numbers.

The most important difference between 0300 numbers and standard 08XX numbers is that 0300 numbers cost the same to call as standard landline numbers even from a mobile phone.

In 2007 approximately 40% of all calls made in the UK were on mobile phones (source: Ofcom 2008) and so the advantage to any public sector organisation wanting to encourage communications is obvious. Callers can be confident that your organisation is not making a “profit” from calls received. This is particularly important for organisations in the healthcare sector when patients have had to phone an NGN number i.e. 0844 to contact their local health authorities.

Added Benefits

Like other non-geographic numbers, 0300 numbers allow organisations to have an array of value added call management features such as:

Call statistics – comprehensive caller and performance information

Call divert – automatic diversion to different departments/divisions as required

Caller options and call queuing - information and choices can be given to the caller

Voicemail to email service – messages captured and sent to an email inbox

Disaster recovery – an emergency or “out of hours” number can be diverted to a specific location

All these services are available online without the need for additional equipment.

Once you have the number it remains yours irrespective of the organisation’s physical location. The 0300 number is simply attached to a current landline.

If you are interested in adopting 0300 numbers, this service is provided by a number of suppliers under the Buying Solutions’ Telecom Networks framework agreement – Lot 1 – Voice Calls and Lines.