Text Relay Assist FAQs

When might I need to use Text Relay Assist?

When you call Text Relay Assist, you are calling a relay assistant directly. They will dial the number of the person you want to call for you. This is ideal if you're struggling to connect a call or it's the first time you've used Text Relay.

When you're struggling to connect a call, Text Relay Assist may be able to help by calling the number for you and setting up the call. This reduces the amount of time it takes to connect the call, so the person at the other end doesn’t have to wait while a relay assistant is joined to the call, as they are already part of it.

If you're calling a friend or family member who hasn't used Text Relay before, Text Relay Assist can explain how the service works to them.

When calling a business, Text Relay Assist can be particularly useful – especially when the call centre may be overseas or the person answering the call has little or no experience with the Text Relay service.

How do I set up Text Relay Assist call from a textphone?

Dial 0870 240 95 98 from a textphone and your call will be answered by the next available relay assistant.

Tell the relay assistant who you want to call by typing their name and phone number:

The relay assistant will then call the number, and if necessary, explain how the service works to the person at the other end of the line.

Once the call is set up, it will be handled in the same way as a standard 18001 Text Relay call.

Please note: the Text Relay Assist service uses the same relay assistants and equipment as the 18001 service.

How do I set up a Text Relay Assist call from a telephone?

If you're using Text Relay for the first time to call someone who may be using a textphone to receive your call, you may want a little extra help making the call – Text Relay Assist can provide this support.

Dial 0870 240 51 52 from any UK telephone or mobile phone.

How much does a Text Relay Assist call cost?

Text Relay Assist calls are charged at your telecommunications provider's standard rate for calls to 0870 numbers. Contact your provider for pricing details.