“We desperately need a landline for medical reasons”

A Welshpool couple in their 80s said they are devastated after broken promises have left them without a landline for two months.

Roger Brown was promised an easy switch to fibre by BT back in January, but over two months and several visits from engineers later he and his wife are still waiting.

“The problem is that the fibre installation was not completed, only the interior house work, but we were switched to fibre at the Telephone Exchange,” said Mr Brown.

“Some attempt seems to have been made to put us back on copper, but this has not been successful. It is essential we are back on line immediately. Eight and more weeks without a landline is extremely stressful for us.

“Both myself and my wife are in our mid-80s, have limited mobility, and are deaf (myself severely). There are other medical issues as well. Although I have a smart phone it has only half the sound volume of the landline, and as such I need someone else to listen and tell me what is said when I ring BT.”

Mr Brown has been told that significant work is required outside his house on Berriew Road which can only be carried out on a Sunday.

He added that he is given times when engineers are expected to come but then there is a no-show.

“No one comes, with no apologies and no re-arrangements. I find this absolutely devastating. We desperately need a landline for medical reasons,” said Mr Brown, who added that he is aware of others experiencing problems in his area.

We contacted BT Openreach who are responsible for connecting customers on behalf of BT.

A spokesperson said that BT would keep Mr Brown updated and added: “We’re doing everything we can to get Mr Brown connected as quickly as possible. His home is on a busy junction, and we’ve been working with the local authority to make sure we can do the work safely with the right traffic management in place. We appreciate his patience whilst we do this.”