UK Wide 03 numbers

There is some confusion over whether 03 numbers are chargeable and here we set out to explain what they are charged at.

UK-wide 03 numbers

03 numbers can be introduced as a viable alternative to chargeable 08 numbers like 0870. Telephone calls to 03 numbers will cost the same as calls to geographic numbers (starting 01 or 02), and be included as part of any landline or mobile inclusive minutes or discount schemes in the same way as geographic calls.

Revenue sharing – where the dialled party can receive a share of what the consumer pays to make a call – will not be permitted on calls to 03 numbers.

Organisations using 03 numbers will offer consumers a single national point of contact without involving additional charges for the service, over and above the cost of calls to geographic numbers.

Numbers starting 030 will be designated for use only by public bodies and not-for-profit services;

Some 03 numbers are reserved so that service providers on existing 08 numbers can transfer to 03 by simply changing the '8' digit in the number to a '3';

Memorable numbers such as those starting with '0300' and '0333' will be made available.