Some further information, which should apply to all DWP agencies. I hope anyone who finds that this is untrue will report it here LOUDLY.

We are assured that the 0800 number is free to call from mobile phones. This is due to a unique commercial arrangement between DWP and the mobile companies (it is not a goodwill gesture by the latter). The DWP intends that 0800 numbers are invariably used for lengthy initial claims.


The 0845 numbers should be only for subsequent enquiries. We are assured that mobile callers will be offered a return call as soon as they get through to an agent. Others who mention that the call is expensive for them should also be offered a call back.

This is not anything like good enough.

Some might say that all calls should be "free to caller". I would argue that all calls to DWP agencies should certainly be free of a surcharge to the benefit of the taxpayer.

Virginmedia landline customers pay 10p + 10p per minute to call a 0845 number. A mobile caller could well have paid over a pound before they even get to speak to an agent. BT customers may be numerous, but they are the exception!

We must say well done for addressing the 0800 situation. We wait for the new government to take the next step, by migrating all the 084s to 03.


Congratulations to Sherbert on reaching this stage of life. Many good wishes for it to be both lengthy and happy.