This service is managed by Enterprise and Economic Growth
Digital connectivity
We work with the Scottish and UK governments to improve broadband and mobile connectivity across Orkney. This page explains the main schemes available and how to find support if you have poor connectivity.
Superfast broadband
The Scottish Government's Reaching 100% (R100) programme aims to connect every home and business in Scotland to superfast broadband. Openreach is delivering the programme in Orkney.
Scottish Broadband Voucher Scheme
If your property is not covered by a commercial provider or the R100 programme, you may be eligible for a voucher to help cover the cost of installing a superfast broadband connection.
Universal Service Obligation
If you cannot get broadband speeds of at least 10Mbps, you may have the right to request a connection under the UK Government's Universal Service Obligation.
Community Fibre Partnerships
If your community wants to work together to improve local connectivity, Openreach's Community Fibre Partnerships programme may be able to help.
Mobile coverage
Digital phone switchover
The UK's analogue telephone network - known as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) - is being switched off and replaced with digital services delivered over broadband. Your telephone provider will contact you when it is your turn to switch.
This page answers common questions about what the switchover means for households and businesses in Orkney.
What is the digital phone switchover?
What is the digital phone switchover?
Phone calls in the UK have traditionally been made over copper telephone lines. This infrastructure is old and is being replaced with digital technology that delivers calls over broadband connections. All customers will eventually be moved to the new system.
Why is this happening?
Why is this happening?
The existing analogue network is becoming obsolete and increasingly expensive to maintain. The upgrade future-proofs the UK's telephone infrastructure.
How will I know when it affects me?
How will I know when it affects me?
Your telephone provider will contact you directly before switching you over. You do not need to do anything until you hear from them.
What devices could be affected?
What devices could be affected?
As well as landline phones, other devices that use the telephone network may be affected, including:
- care alarms and personal alarms
- security alarms
- fax machines
- some door entry systems
- some payment terminals
If you use any of these, let your provider know before you switch so they can advise you.
What happens to my landline phone?
What happens to my landline phone?
Your provider should supply any equipment needed to keep your main telephone connected after the switchover. If you want to keep a landline phone, tell your provider - you should be able to continue using one.
What happens during a power cut?
What happens during a power cut?
Unlike traditional landlines, digital phones need power to work. If there is a power cut, you will not be able to make calls - including to emergency services - unless you have a mobile phone or a battery backup unit.
Ask your provider about battery backup options before you switch, especially if you rely on your landline for emergencies or have a care alarm.
I have a care alarm - what should I do?
I have a care alarm - what should I do?
Contact your alarm provider before switching to check whether your device is compatible with the new digital network. Some older devices may need to be replaced or reconfigured.
What should I do to prepare?
What should I do to prepare?
Before your provider contacts you, it is worth:
- checking whether any devices in your home use the telephone network
- letting your provider know about any health or accessibility needs
- asking your provider about battery backup if you are concerned about power cuts
- contacting your care alarm or security alarm provider if applicable
Are there risks of scams?
Are there risks of scams?
Yes - be aware that fraudsters may use the switchover as an opportunity to contact people claiming to offer assistance. Your provider will contact you directly and will not ask for payment upfront or request remote access to your devices.
What should businesses do?
What should businesses do?
Businesses should check whether any of their systems rely on the analogue network - including alarms, payment terminals, and fax machines - and contact their providers to discuss what changes may be needed.