Phone directory with practical calling guides
Verified phone numbers paired with practical calling guides. Check preparation requirements, expected outcomes, and known issues before making any call.
Featured guides
Updated regularly based on real calls and user feedback. Every guide includes preparation checklists, outcomes, and troubleshooting tips.
OVO Energy (SSE Energy Services)
You can inquire about tariffs, payments, and general service issues. The line is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, and Saturday from 9am to 1pm. For emergencies, support is available 24/7. Common reasons for calling include submitting meter readings, handling complaints, and reporting emergencies. Wait times can be long, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, so calling on Monday or Thursday mornings is recommended for shorter waits.
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
The service is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, excluding weekends and bank holidays. Callers often contact HMRC for help with tax returns, payment issues, and general tax advice. Wait times can be long, especially during peak tax season, but calling early in the morning or mid-week may reduce waiting periods. Automated menus are used, so listen carefully to select the correct option.
University of Salford Students' Union
Students can also engage in representation activities, raise complaints or feedback, and book spaces for events. Most queries are handled by elected officers or union staff, with complaints requiring internal processes before escalation. Typically, calls are answered during operating hours, and students may need to arrange appointments for certain services. While specific wait times are not provided, contacting the union during non-peak hours may reduce wait times.
Police & Crime Commissioner Devon & Cornwall
Common reasons for calling include inquiries about the commissioner's role, submitting complaints or feedback, and making Freedom of Information (FOI) requests. Calls are typically answered during office hours, and wait times may vary depending on the time of day. Costs for calling this number can range from 10p to 40p per minute, depending on your phone provider. It is advisable to check if your call package includes calls to 01392 numbers to potentially reduce costs.
Nationwide Foundation
They also process complaints related to their operations. The Foundation is independent from Nationwide Building Society, so they cannot assist with banking queries. Typically, calls are answered during operating hours, but specific wait times are not provided. It is advisable to call during mid-morning or early afternoon to potentially avoid peak times. The success rate for grant application support is around 25%, indicating a competitive process.
University of Leeds
The switchboard operates from Monday to Friday, 08:00-18:00, and on Saturday from 09:00-13:00. Callers often reach out for assistance with academic queries, admissions information, or to connect with specific university departments. The staff is known for being friendly and helpful, ensuring that callers are directed to the correct team for their needs. While specific wait times are not provided, calling during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late afternoons, may result in shorter wait times.
Open University Students Association
Common reasons for calling include inquiries about membership, events, and student support services. The association also offers individual representation for academic or procedural issues. Operating hours are Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. While wait times can vary, calling during mid-morning or early afternoon may reduce delays. Email is also a popular contact method for less urgent matters.
University of Edinburgh
Callers can inquire about application statuses, course details, and departmental contacts. The switchboard operates Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. Wait times can be longer during peak periods, such as the start of academic terms. For non-urgent matters, it's advisable to use online forms or email. The BSL video relay service is available depending on Contact Scotland BSL hours, ensuring accessibility for British Sign Language users.
Royal Derby Hospital
This service is crucial for obtaining general hospital information and reaching specific medical teams. While the switchboard operates during published hours, callers may experience long wait times, especially during peak hours or emergencies. It's advisable to call during off-peak times for quicker service. The switchboard staff can assist with transferring calls and providing general guidance, but specific medical queries might require direct contact with the relevant department or using online resources.
Home Office
The service operates Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:45, with an earlier closing time of 16:30 on Thursdays, excluding public holidays. Common reasons for calling include seeking information about Home Office services, submitting complaints about service or staff, and requesting access to information under the FOI Act. Callers should be prepared for potentially long wait times, particularly during midday hours. It is advisable to call early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak times.
University of Liverpool
Common reasons for calling include checking application statuses, confirming course details, and understanding eligibility criteria. The switchboard operates Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. While specific wait times aren't provided, calling during early morning hours may reduce wait times. The switchboard serves as the primary contact point, ensuring callers are connected to the right department or service for their needs.
Queen's Medical Centre
Callers can request directions, be connected to specific wards or clinics, and inquire about appointments. The phone lines are open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. It's advisable to call during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times. For specific services like audiology or appointments, having patient details ready can expedite the process. The switchboard efficiently directs calls to the relevant departments, ensuring you reach the right contact quickly.
Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service
Common reasons for calling include making general enquiries about fire service operations, reporting non-emergency incidents, and obtaining information about local fire stations. The reception is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and on Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. Typical wait times can vary, with longer waits reported during peak hours. It's advisable to call during off-peak times or use email for non-urgent queries. For emergencies, always dial 999.
Royal Mail Group Ltd
Available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00, this line often experiences long wait times, especially during peak periods or after major service disruptions. Callers are advised to have tracking numbers, reference numbers, or account details ready to expedite service. Automated menus are used for initial triage, and persistence may be required to reach a human agent. Calling early in the morning is recommended to avoid long hold times.
Royal Sussex County Hospital (Charity Office)
Common reasons for calling include inquiries about how to donate, organizing fundraising events, and processing donations with Gift Aid. The office is available during standard business hours, and callers often seek guidance on legacy and planned giving. While typical wait times are not specified, calling during mid-morning or early afternoon may help avoid peak times. If visiting in person, it's advisable to call ahead for directions as the office can be difficult to locate.
University of Winchester
The reception operates during standard business hours and can redirect calls to specific departments such as admissions, alumni, or IT if necessary. For urgent course-related enquiries, a dedicated admissions line is available. While typical wait times are not specified, calling during early morning or late afternoon may reduce waiting periods. The reception staff is trained to assist with a wide range of questions, ensuring that callers receive the information they need efficiently.
University of Wolverhampton Students' Union
The Advice and Representation Centre (ARC) operates independently of the university, ensuring confidentiality and impartiality. Common reasons for calling include seeking advice on academic appeals, housing issues, or financial guidance. The service is available Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 16:30. While typical wait times are not specified, responses to enquiries are usually provided within five working days. For quicker assistance, students are encouraged to use the online enquiry form.
WM Morrison Supermarkets Limited
The service is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and on Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. Common reasons for calling include checking order statuses, resolving complaints, and obtaining store details. Wait times can be longer during peak hours or after major promotions, so calling during off-peak times is advisable. Customers are encouraged to check the FAQs before calling to potentially resolve their issues more quickly.
University of Buckingham
The reception staff are equipped to handle a variety of questions and can redirect calls to the appropriate department for more detailed assistance. The service operates Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and on Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. While specific wait times are not provided, calling during early morning hours may reduce wait times. This number is ideal for prospective students, current students, and visitors seeking basic information about the university.
UWTSD Students' Union
You can call to get information about the Students' Union, its services, events, and general support. The Advice Service offers confidential help with academic appeals, extenuating circumstances, and more. Student Representation assists in raising concerns and engaging with student representatives. Additionally, you can inquire about joining or starting clubs and societies. The phone lines are open Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 17:00. During peak periods, such as the start of term or exam results, expect longer wait times. For faster service, consider using online forms or email.
Yorkshire Building Society
Customers often call for mortgage support, account management, and to provide feedback or lodge complaints. Typical wait times can be longer during peak hours or after major announcements, so calling during off-peak hours is advisable. The best times to call are usually mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays. The service is available during operating hours, and having your membership number and personal identification ready can expedite the process.
University of Birmingham
This service is available Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 16:30. Common reasons for calling include obtaining campus information, reaching specific departments, and addressing academic queries. Callers may experience wait times during peak periods, particularly at the start of academic terms. It is advisable to call during mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid longer wait times. The switchboard is an essential contact point for students, staff, and visitors seeking assistance or information.
West Yorkshire Police
For emergencies, dial 999 to report crimes in progress or threats to life, available 24/7. Non-emergency incidents can be reported by calling 101 or using online services, also available around the clock. General enquiries about police services, advice, or information can be made during specific hours: Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. You can also check the status of a previously reported crime online using a crime reference number. If you need to leave a message for a local officer, this can be done during the same hours as general enquiries. Note that wait times may be longer during peak hours, and helpdesk hours are subject to change.
Octopus Energy Limited
Customers can also address general energy queries. For emergencies related to faulty meters causing a loss of supply, support is available 24/7. Typical wait times can be long during peak hours, especially during billing cycles and winter months. It's often faster to use email for non-urgent queries. The best times to call for non-emergency issues are during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays.
University of Glasgow Accounting & Finance
They also provide guidance on the application process, including required documents and deadlines, as well as academic advising for course selection and degree requirements. Phone support is recommended for urgent or complex queries, while email is suggested for detailed responses. Typical wait times can be longer during peak periods, such as near application deadlines. Calling during non-peak hours may reduce wait times.
Wirral Metropolitan Borough Council
Common reasons for calling include making service requests for waste collection, council tax inquiries, and housing assistance. The council also handles general enquiries about its services and processes Freedom of Information requests. Callers are typically greeted by an automated menu, and specifying the required department can help streamline the process. Long wait times are common during peak hours, so calling during off-peak times or using online forms for non-urgent issues is recommended.
University Hospital Coventry Charity
Common reasons to call include making donations, setting up regular giving, and seeking guidance for fundraising activities. The charity also handles complaints and feedback regarding its activities. Calls are typically answered Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 17:00, excluding bank holidays. For detailed or non-urgent queries, email is recommended. Wait times may vary, but calling during core hours increases the likelihood of reaching a representative.
Writtle University College
Callers can also receive admissions support, providing assistance with application procedures and requirements. Additionally, the line assists with booking and information for university open days and campus tours. Typically, the reception staff are helpful and can direct calls to the relevant departments. During peak periods, such as admissions deadlines and open day events, wait times may be longer. For non-urgent queries, email responses might be faster.
Nottingham Trent University
Callers can inquire about university services, admissions, and student or staff support. The line is available during operating hours, and callers may experience automated menus before speaking to an agent. Common reasons for calling include checking application status, understanding admission requirements, and seeking student support. Wait times can be longer during peak periods, such as the start and end of terms. For quicker service, try calling mid-morning or mid-afternoon on weekdays.
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC
The service is typically available Monday to Friday. While specific wait times may vary, it is advisable to call during mid-morning or mid-afternoon to potentially experience shorter wait times. The customer service team can assist with reservation inquiries, provide information on promotions, and resolve booking issues. It is also possible to get support for loyalty program queries. While specific issues aren't detailed for this number, general advice suggests having all necessary details ready to expedite your call.
Plusnet plc
Common reasons for calling include billing inquiries, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and ordering new services. The customer service team is known for being friendly and helpful, operating from Monday to Friday, 08:00-18:00, and Saturday, 09:00-13:00. Wait times can be longer during peak hours and service outages, so calling during off-peak times is recommended. The service is free to call from landlines, and the team is UK-based.
Wrexham Glyndwr University
You can inquire about admissions, campus facilities, events, and student support. The university also provides student advice on academic procedures, enrolment, accommodation, healthcare, ID card replacement, timetables, and graduation. Calls are accepted in both Welsh and English. While specific course inquiries require a different number, general questions are handled efficiently. The best times to call are weekdays from 08:30 to 17:00. Online chat is also available on the university's website during office hours for additional support.
Cambridgeshire Constabulary
This line receives reports of crimes and anti-social behaviour and provides immediate police response for emergencies and non-emergencies. Please note, for emergencies, you should dial 999 instead. Common reasons for calling include reporting suspicious activities or requesting information about local policing. While this number is not for emergencies, it does handle general enquiries related to administrative matters. Typically, wait times can be longer during peak hours, so it's advisable to call during non-peak times or use online services where available.
Northumbrian Water Limited
You can report a leak in the street, footpath, or on private property for investigation and repair. Emergency water supply issues, like loss of water due to a leak, can also be reported for urgent response. The emergency leakline is available 24/7, ensuring immediate attention to critical problems. Online reporting is also available for non-urgent leaks. Typical wait times for a technician to be dispatched range from 1 to 5 days, depending on the severity of the issue. For the best service, call during off-peak hours, typically early mornings or late evenings.
University of Bolton
Callers can ask about university directions, connect to specific departments, or get details about visiting the campus. The service operates Monday to Friday, from 08:45 to 17:00. Typical reasons for calling include checking application statuses, understanding admissions processes, and planning campus visits. While specific wait times aren't provided, peak periods such as the start of academic terms may lead to longer waits. For quicker service, calling outside these peak times is recommended.
Ravensbourne University London
Callers can inquire about courses, admissions, events, and campus facilities. The line also provides detailed information on both undergraduate and postgraduate courses across creative, business, and technology disciplines. Additionally, the service connects callers to specific departments such as Architecture, Design, Fashion, Media, Business, and Computing. Typically, calls are routed through a main switchboard, and reception staff are adept at directing inquiries to the appropriate departments. While specific wait times aren't provided, calling during standard operating hours is recommended for the best service.
