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0808 numbers
Free to call from any UK landline or mobile
Freephone, identical to 0800. Widely used by charities and helplines, including many 0808 80 numbers reserved for support services.
0808 is a freephone range, free from UK landlines and mobiles just like 0800. Numbers starting 0808 80 are used by confidential helplines and do not appear on itemised bills.
Are 0808 numbers free?
Yes. Calls to 0808 numbers cost nothing from UK landlines and mobiles and do not use your inclusive minutes. The organisation that owns the number pays for the call.
Why do helplines use 0808 80?
Numbers beginning 0808 80 are reserved for helplines where callers may not want a record of the call. Because they are free and do not show on the bill, they suit services such as domestic abuse, mental health and addiction support. If you need that kind of help, you can ring an 0808 80 number without it appearing on a shared phone bill.
An unknown 0808 number rang me
It may be a genuine helpline returning your call, a company with a free customer line, or a marketing call. Free to ring back does not mean safe to share personal details.
- Do not give out passcodes, PINs or full card details to someone who rang you.
- Hang up and call the organisation back on the number printed on your card, bill or its official website.
How to check a 0808 number
Type the full number into the search box on this page. You will see how other people have rated it and what they were told on the call. If nobody has reported it yet, you can add the first report.