Virtual Landline for Prison Calls

If you receive calls from someone in prison, you may already know how expensive they can be — especially when calls are made to mobile phones. Many families are surprised to discover that a simple conversation can cost several pounds, with monthly expenses quickly adding up.

A virtual landline offers a simple, legal, and highly effective way to reduce prison call costs while allowing you to receive calls on your mobile phone. By switching to landline rates, families can stay connected more often without the financial strain.

What Is a Virtual Landline?

A virtual landline is a telephone number that works like a traditional landline but is not tied to a physical phone line. Instead, calls made to this number are automatically forwarded to your chosen device, such as a mobile phone or another landline. To the caller, it behaves exactly like a standard landline number. For prison calls, this is important because landline numbers are significantly cheaper to call than mobile numbers.

How a Virtual Landline Works for Prison Calls

Using a virtual landline is straightforward. After registering, you receive a dedicated landline number. Your loved one adds this number to their approved prison contact list and calls it using their phone credit. When they dial the number, the call is routed through the landline network and instantly forwarded to your mobile or chosen phone. You answer as normal, but the call is billed at the lower landline rate rather than the higher mobile rate. The process is seamless and requires no technical setup.

Why Virtual Landlines Reduce Prison Call Costs

Calls to mobile phones are the most expensive option within prison telecom systems due to additional routing charges. Landline calls, by comparison, are charged at a lower rate. By using a virtual landline, prisoners dial a landline number while you still receive the call on your mobile. This allows families to benefit from lower call rates without needing a physical landline at home.

How Much Can You Save?

The savings can be substantial. Calls to mobile phones can cost up to 25p per minute, while landline calls are significantly cheaper. A typical 15-minute mobile call costing around £3.75 could be reduced to approximately 75p when routed through a virtual landline. Over a month, this could lower costs from £75 to around £15, saving more than £60. Over a year, families may save hundreds of pounds while maintaining regular contact.

Key Benefits of a Virtual Landline for Prison Calls

A virtual landline provides several advantages for families receiving prison calls. It allows you to receive calls on your mobile while benefiting from lower landline rates. Setup is quick and simple, and there is no need for a physical landline installation. Most importantly, it makes regular communication more affordable, enabling families to stay connected without worrying about escalating costs.

When Should You Consider Switching?

If you receive regular prison calls on a mobile phone, notice rising monthly costs, or want to make communication more affordable, switching to a virtual landline can provide immediate savings. It is particularly useful for families who rely on mobile phones but want to avoid the higher charges associated with mobile call routing.

Is Using a Virtual Landline Allowed?

Yes. Virtual landline services are fully compliant with UK prison phone systems. From the prison’s perspective, the number is a standard landline, which is permitted within the rules governing approved contacts. There is no special approval process beyond adding the number to the prisoner’s authorised contact list.

Maintaining regular contact during imprisonment is essential for emotional wellbeing, family stability, and rehabilitation. A virtual landline offers a practical solution that reduces call costs while preserving the convenience of receiving calls on your mobile.

If you are looking for a virtual landline for prison calls or ways to make prison calls cheaper in the UK, this simple solution can make staying connected far more affordable.