Receiving SMS messages via a landline phone

As has been explained, the only chargeable *incoming* calls are from reverse charge (collect) automated services like 0800MUMDAD &

So don't worry about being charged.

If you still find these calls a nuisance, do as I have dine and bar them by dialling 0800 587 5252

Then tell the school about email and to stop wasting their money!

I think one is often forced into it, e.g. the *only* way I can authenticate some transactions with my bank is via an SMS message they send me. Similarly I suspect the OP's texts from a school were not asked for.

Depends on how much you like getting the SMS robot on the landline I suppose... ;-)

My dentist used to give a ring the day before an appointment to remind / confirm. At some point they switched to automating it via SMS. Problem is I normally book more than one family member at a time to cut down the number of trips etc. That meant I would get woken up by an early morning robot informing me of an appointment. Followed every 3 mins or so by further calls for each additional appointment! It was far preferable to have them arrive at my mobile, on my desk downstairs where I could look at them later!

No different from receiving them on our landline. Our landline is SMS capable, send it an SMS and it *doesn't* ring, it does the same sort of thing as a mobile, a very soft single tinkle.`

I agree the robot is a bit of a pain but it's not the only way a landline can receive SMS.

I am not sure how many (if any) of our phones are SMS capable. I doubt the signal would make it through my PABX though...

I have not used them, but there are several SMS-to-email services. Sounds ideal - if you notice your emails arriving.

They only work by forwarding the E-Mail from your mobile though, not a lot of use if the mobile is turned off or (as at our house) not able to get a signal.

In message , Graham. writes

I wish! Someone has obviously told them that SMS is 'the way forward' or some such bollix, so that is what they do. As mentioned earlier, they have a perfectly good web site that was updated with emergency information [1], but that seems to have fallen behind the all new SMS service.

In message , polygonum writes

Yes, I had thought of that, but I don't think the school would be happy. Getting them to send SMS messages to a land line number was difficult enough! Getting them to send to a service provider number or an e-mail address would be 'interesting'.

To be honest, now I'm reassured that I'm not paying to receive the messages, I'm quite happy to answer the land line phone.