The United Kingdom works with a defined set of dialling codes that makes the aspect of tracking and categorising phone calls easier. Likewise, the dialling codes with 0371 numbers are allocated to non-profit organisations, government bodies, and charitable offices across the UK. The 0371 numbers act as a helpline code that aids the general audience to connect with such service providers directly.
The 0371 numbers were first introduced by Ofcom in 2007 as an alternative to the 08 dialling codes. Let us now dissect the entire concept of 0371 numbers and answer relevant questions concerning the notion.
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What are 0371 Numbers?
Unlike other dialling codes that indicate a specific geographic area, the 0371 numbers are non-geographical codes, allowing individuals from diverse locations to use the code in order to connect with officials representing a government body or a non-profit organisation.
These numbers are assigned to public service providers, which can be used by any individual operating within the UK. Other non-geographic dialling codes in the UK include 033, 030, and 0344 numbers which serve the same purpose. These numbers act as an alternative to the 087 and 09 numbers, which are more expensive and dedicated to resolving more complex customer problems.
How are 0371 Numbers Different from Others?
The primary difference between the 0371 numbers and other dialling codes is that it gives the public service providers a national identity. People from all around the UK can use this number to connect with public service officials, allowing them to build trust in the authorities concerned.
Conventionally, the 0371 numbers cost work with a pay-per-minute plan, which is then subject to additional charges. Due to its unique properties, these numbers are considered to be premium, which are charged as per the standard UK rates.
The Primary Benefits of 0371 Numbers
The primary benefits of the 0371 numbers have been highlighted below:
A. National Presence
Using the code provides your business with a national presence. The general audience immediately acknowledges the service offered by the organisation, giving the business a non-geographical and professional identity. Moreover, a standard calling charge is applied throughout the UK, eliminating the concept of long-distance cost.
B. Easy Calling Routes
The calling routes for these numbers can be segmented and distributed to different locations without any complications. This aspect enhances customer experience as the complexities related to geographical areas are eliminated. Social service officials can effectively maintain the same calling number even if they have to relocate to a new location in the UK.
C. Cost-Effective and Additional Flexibility
All the 0371 numbers follow a standard calling cost rate, which is applicable for the entire general audience based in the UK. Therefore, the issues concerning additional costs incurred due to the distance factor are entirely avoided. Moreover, service providers have the flexibility to operate from remote locations without having to worry about updating dialling codes.
D. Complete Privacy and Scalability
Due to its national appeal, the 0371 numbers are available throughout. Businesses can also scale up without having to worry about adding new lines to cater to the increased volume of calls. Moreover, using 0371 numbers ensures that individuals maintain complete privacy by working with a designated business number that only caters to their professional requirements.
Calling Cost of 0371 Numbers
The 0371 number cost varies, depending on the independent carrier network opted by the user. The primary benefit of 0371 numbers is that a standard costing policy is followed, regardless of the method opted by the user. Therefore, the calling charges will essentially be the same when connecting through a smartphone or landline.
The calls initiated on the number complement the offers issued by the carrier network. Therefore, if your monthly plan includes unlimited UK minutes, then calling the 0371 number would be covered under the package opted by the user.
Callers are charged a connection and duration fee based on the pay-per-minute model. Therefore, the longer you are on the call, the higher the phone bill. However, certain carrier networks provide free calling minutes while dialling the 03 code. Seek assistance from your carrier service provider to learn more.
Are 0371 Numbers Free to Call?
Are 0371 numbers free? Well, the simplest way to answer the question would be with a “No.” However, calling 0371 numbers from landlines or cell phones does not generate fluctuating rates. A fixed billing system is followed regardless of the mode of call or location of the caller.
The calling rates vary depending on the carrier network of the customer. Therefore, it is imperative to consult the carrier service provider to gain complete knowledge about the 0371 numbers cost.
Also Read: What are 0800 numbers – Everything you Need to Know
Calling Charges for 0371 Numbers
In this section, we will debunk the cost according to some of the most popular carrier network service providers in the UK.
A. EE
Calling the 0371 numbers on EE is applicable to charges. The network acknowledges the dialling code in its offers, such as inclusive minutes and flexible text allowance. However, individuals who operate with a monthly plan need to pay 50p per minute along with an additional 50p access charge when calling these numbers.
B. Three
Charges under the Three network are also applicable for calling 0371 numbers. However, monthly subscribers can activate the free-call service to effectively connect with 0371 numbers without incurring any additional charge. Customers who have not subscribed to the monthly plan must pay as per the standard charges established by the network.
C. Vodafone
Vodafone also imposes calling charges to connect with the 0371 numbers. Customers associated with Vodafone must initially pay 55p as a connecting charge, with an additional 55p applicable on a pay-per-minute module.
D. O2
O2 customers must also pay a nominal amount to connect with the 0371 numbers. Individuals possessing a mobile contract need only pay 35p per minute and an additional 35p. Other O2 subscribers must pay according to the standard cost allowance established by the network. Connect with the O2 customer support team to learn more.
E. Tesco Mobile
Tesco Mobile also applies standard charges for every 0371 number called. Customers must pay 55p per minute while initiating the 0371 number calls. However, customers who work with mobile plans that include unlimited calling offers can connect with these numbers for free. Individuals will be charged according to the standard rates after the expiry of the said plan.
F. BT
Individuals associated with the BT network must pay 45p per minute to connect with 0371 numbers. However, individuals that have a free-minutes package under their mobile plan can connect with the dialling code for free.
Regulations and Standards on 0371 Numbers
There are specific regulations and standards that must be followed before calling these numbers These standards are primarily implemented when an individual tries to call 0371 numbers from foreign locations outside the geographical boundaries of the United Kingdom.
Individuals must use the International Code [+44] and drop the “Zero” present in 0371 numbers while initiating calls from foreign countries. Conventionally, the number sequence should be like – +44 371 XXX…
Ofcom Guidelines
The Office of Communications, or Ofcom, is a governing body that monitors and sets calling standards within the United Kingdom. Consequently, the cost for calling 0371 numbers is also determined by Ofcom to ensure complete transparency throughout.
According to Ofcom, the cost incurred on these numbers should not exceed the cost established for 01 and 02 geographical dialling codes. Calls initiated from landlines should be limited to 16p per minute. Moreover, carrier networks can impose a specific fee concerning connection charges depending upon the independent policies of the service providers.
Service Provider Compliance Requirements
The charges implemented by carrier networks vary depending on the mobile plan opted by the customer. However, there are multiple compliance requirements that every carrier network must acknowledge. The policies of the network are then formulated after prior acknowledgment of the compliance standards established by Ofcom. Some of these compliance requirements are:
A. Transparency of Pricing Standards
All carrier networks must be completely transparent about the pricing standards established for non-geographical numbers. Costs involved, such as per-minute charges, access fees, and service charges, must be completely disclosed to all the subscribers.
B. Calling Cost Limits
Ofcom has established a calling cost limit for all non-geographic numbers, which every carrier network operating within the boundaries of the United Kingdom must acknowledge throughout.
C. Free Minutes According to the Plan
Carrier service providers must include calling 0371 numbers under plans that offer unlimited or free minutes in the UK. No additional charges are to be applied for subscribers that have an already existing offer for free minutes. The compliance requirements are established to bring about a sense of fairness that helps to maintain customer goodwill intact.
Carrier networks that do not fulfil the compliance requirements are liable to pay hefty fines as a penalty. Moreover, the overall goodwill of the service provider is significantly impacted as customers tend to lose their trust in the long run. Failure to respect the standards established by Ofcom may result in significant financial losses for the carrier networks involved.
Conclusion
These were some of the foremost aspects related to the aspect of calling 0371 numbers. As already specified, carrier service providers must be completely transparent with their customers and disclose all cost-related information to their subscribers. Therefore, if you wish to avail more detailed knowledge about 0371 numbers, be sure to seek assistance with your carrier network.
