If the call is forwarded

Since 11 August 2026, the interception policy framework tells prisons to restrict numbers used for call diversion or re-routing, and 0800 numbers used as social contacts.

Most cheap “virtual landline” or prison-call apps work that way: they dial a landline, then forward the call to a mobile. If the app fails, they often end up calling the mobile — the expensive rate.

A landline that just rings the phone you have, with nothing passed on, is a different thing. That has not changed.

This is not automatic everywhere. Some prisons refuse the number. Some do not, until they do. We are not HMPPS. The published framework is on GOV.UK (§7.9).

If a number was refused or blocked at your prison, add it on that prison’s page so the next family is not guessing.

Source: GOV.UK · Interception policy framework · §7.9