Can you use a virtual landline for cheaper prison calls?

Staying connected with a loved one in prison is essential for maintaining relationships and providing emotional support. However, the cost of prison phone calls in the UK can be prohibitively expensive, especially when calling a mobile phone. This is where a virtual landline can make a significant difference, helping families and friends save money on prison calls while ensuring a reliable and stable connection.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a virtual landline is, how it works, and why it can be a cost-effective solution for reducing prison call costs. We’ll also cover whether virtual landlines are allowed in UK prisons, how to set one up, and how they compare to other alternatives.

What is a virtual landline?

A virtual landline is a landline number that isn’t tied to a physical telephone line. Instead, it forwards calls to another device, such as a mobile phone or another landline. This means that the caller dials a landline number, but the recipient can answer from a mobile or any other registered device.Virtual landlines function just like traditional landlines in terms of how they are dialed and charged. Since prison phone rates are typically cheaper when calling a landline compared to a mobile, using a virtual landline can be a smart way to save money on prison calls.

Why are prison calls so expensive?

The cost of prison phone calls is a major concern for many families. Here’s why:

Prison Phone Systems Are Limited – Inmates can only use specific prison-approved phone services, which often come with high call charges.

Mobile Calls Cost More – Calling a mobile phone from a prison is significantly more expensive than calling a landline.

Prepaid Call System – Prisoners must top up their phone credit, which means every minute counts.

A virtual landline allows prisoners to call a landline number at a lower rate, which is then forwarded to a mobile, significantly cutting costs.

How does a virtual landline work for Prison Calls?

A virtual landline works by assigning a standard UK landline number to the recipient. When a prisoner calls this number, the call is charged at the landline rate instead of the higher mobile rate. The call is then automatically redirected to the recipient’s mobile, ensuring they can answer anywhere while keeping costs low for the prisoner.

Benefits of Using a Virtual Landline for Prison Calls
✅ Cheaper Calls – Calls to landlines are significantly cheaper than calls to mobiles.
✅ Convenient for Families – Loved ones can receive calls on their mobile without the prisoner paying mobile rates.
✅ Reliable and Stable Connection – Unlike some VoIP services, virtual landlines provide a clear and consistent call quality.
✅ Easy to Set Up – No additional hardware is needed; everything is managed digitally.

Are virtual landlines allowed in UK Prisons?

The short answer is yes, virtual landlines are allowed provided they follow prison regulations. Some prisons may block VoIP numbers, but a virtual landline functions as a standard landline, making it an acceptable solution.

At Prison Call we make sure that your virtual landline is registered with your name and details making it a fully compliant and legitimate service. This sets us apart from competitors and ensures that your number won’t be blocked.

How do you setup a virtual landline?

Setting up a virtual landline is simple and takes just a few steps:

‍Choose a Provider – Select a reputable service like Prison Call, which specialises in affordable prison call solutions, and getting you the cheapest calls from prison.
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‍Pick a Local Landline Number – Submit your postcode and we will choose a virtual landline number that the prisoner can call at a cheaper rate.
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‍Forward Calls to Your Mobile – Once your number is registered calls will be forwarded so you can receive calls on your mobile.
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‍Register the Number with the Prison – Ensure the number is added to the prisoner’s approved contact list.
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‍Start Receiving Calls – Once set up, you can enjoy cheaper calls from your loved one in prison.

Comparing virtual landlines to other options

While a virtual landline is a great way to save on prison calls, there are other alternatives. Let’s compare them:

1. Traditional Landline
✅ Cheap for Prisoner     ❌ Recipient Must Be at Home to Answer
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2. Mobile Phone
✅ Convenient for Recipient     ❌ Expensive for Prisoner

3. Calling Cards
✅ Sometimes Offers Discounts     ❌ Limited Availability and Restrictions
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4. Virtual Landline
✅ Best of Both Worlds – Cheap for Prisoner and Convenient for Recipient
✅ Works on Any Device
✅ Reliable and Easy to Set Up

FAQs about virtual landlines

1. Will the Prison Allow a Virtual Landline?
‍Yes, as long as the number is registered under your name, it is a legitimate service. Prison Call ensures all numbers are properly registered to comply with regulations.

‍2. How Much Can I Save with a Virtual Landline?
‍Using a virtual landline can cut prison call costs by up to 50% or more, depending on your current rates.

‍3. Can I Use My Existing Mobile Number?
‍No, but you can forward your virtual landline calls to your mobile, ensuring seamless communication.

‍4. How Do I Sign Up for a Virtual Landline?
‍You can sign up with Prison Call in just a few minutes and get your number activated right away.

Using a virtual landline is one of the most effective ways to get cheap prison calls without sacrificing convenience. It allows prisoners to call a landline at a lower rate while ensuring their loved ones can answer from anywhere.

With Prison Call, you get a fully registered, legitimate virtual landline number that won’t be blocked by the prison system. If you want to reduce the cost of staying connected with a loved one in prison, a virtual landline is the best solution available today.Start saving on prison calls today – sign up for a virtual landline with Prison Call!