What you need for Text Relay
Getting a textphone
Most textphones (sometimes called a Minicom) plug directly into your phone line and allow you to make and receive calls by typing and reading the conversation on a display.
There are many companies that sell textphones; here's just a few that allow you to order a textphone online, but you may want to shop around:
If you have a PC with an internet connection
You can turn your PC into a textphone by downloading a computer program that uses your broadband connection to make Text Relay calls.
Once set up it allows you to call other textphones and telephones from your home computer, with the added advantage of a full size keyboard for easier typing.
You can download PC textphone program from any of these websites:
System requirements:
A PC running Microsoft Windows 2000 (or newer editions), Windows XP or Vista.
A broadband internet connection.
Support and advice
FAQs
Still got questions? We're sure you'll find the answers in our FAQs section.
Downloads
Download user guides and find out how to turn your PC into a textphone.
Useful links
Industry related links.
British Sign Language videos
All of our BSL video guides, in one place.
BSL Video – What you need for Text Relay (2.11)
This video contains British Sign Language content, there is no audio content available. Skip VideoImportant Numbers
To make a call: dial 18001 + number
Emergency calls: dial 18000
Support & advice
Latest news
New research project about text relay services | 17 Aug 2010
Ofcom are asking people to have their say by taking part in their new research project about the future of text relay and other services for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or with speech difficulties.
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