What Are Telephone Answering Services?
The best telephone answering services in UK help businesses handle calls when they can’t. These services offer trained receptionists who take messages, transfer calls, and deal with inquiries. For small businesses and freelancers, it’s a game-changer. It ensures you never miss an important call, even when you’re off the clock.
Why You Might Need a Telephone Answering Service
A missed call could mean a missed client or a lost sale. But hiring a full-time receptionist is expensive. That’s where telephone answering services come in. They're affordable, flexible, and efficient. Whether you're a startup or a growing business, these services give your clients a human point of contact.
1. Moneypenny – For a Premium First Impression
Moneypenny is one of the best telephone answering services in UK. Known for its highly trained receptionists and smooth integrations with CRM tools, it’s ideal for legal firms, estate agents, and finance professionals.
24/7 availability
Dedicated receptionist
App integration
Free trial available
It’s not the cheapest, but if brand image matters to you, it’s worth it.
2. Answer4u – UK-Based Human Receptionists
Based in Nottingham, Answer4u handles calls on behalf of thousands of UK businesses. The staff works from UK call centres and follow your script closely.
No setup fees
Monthly rolling contracts
Secure data handling
Answer4u suits businesses that want local support without sounding robotic.
3. Face for Business – Flexible and Transparent Pricing
This service is known for transparency. You can access recorded calls and get detailed analytics on call volumes.
Rolling contracts
Call recording
Free virtual receptionist trial
Their dashboard gives you control over how your calls are handled.
4. alldayPA – For 24/7 Support
This service is trusted by major corporations and offers true 24/7 support. With over 600 UK-based staff, alldayPA is perfect if you handle clients in different time zones.
Custom scripts
Overflow call handling
Scalable for all business sizes
Their secure systems also make them popular in healthcare and finance.
5. Pocket Receptionist – Ideal for Startups
Looking for budget-friendly options? Pocket Receptionist is one of the best telephone answering services in UK for startups.
No contracts
Daily call summaries
Call transfer & message taking
You only pay for what you use, making it ideal for small or seasonal businesses.
6. AnswerConnect – Eco-Friendly Call Handling
A US-based company with UK support, AnswerConnect is unique for its eco-conscious mission.
24/7 service
Bilingual operators
Custom call handling
They plant trees for every new client, so you can manage calls while caring for the planet.
7. Verbatim – Personalised UK Receptionists
Verbatim offers a more “boutique” feel. Your calls are handled by a small team of receptionists trained to act like part of your company.
Personal account managers
Call forwarding
Industry-specific training
You’ll build a long-term relationship with the same agents.
8. OfficeAnswers – For Legal and Financial Firms
If you work in law, accounting, or consulting, OfficeAnswers has the niche experience you need. They understand the sensitivity of professional calls.
Strict confidentiality
Legal terminology expertise
Real-time message delivery
This service protects your reputation while boosting efficiency.
9. eReceptionist – Virtual Number and Call Handling Combo
Looking for a virtual number and answering service all in one? eReceptionist delivers both.
Virtual landline numbers
Voicemail-to-email
Call forwarding and scheduling
This is great for remote teams and freelancers who need a professional image.
10. Ilford Business Centre (IBC) – The Local Professional Touch
Looking for a trusted local provider? Ilford Business Centre (IBC) is a rising name among the best telephone answering services in UK. IBC blends affordability with professionalism and supports businesses across all sectors.
Bilingual receptionists
Message forwarding via WhatsApp or email
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Visit ibc.co.uk to learn how their answering service can help your business sound professional around the clock.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Service
Not all telephone answering services are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
Availability
24/7 coverage isn’t just useful—it’s often necessary, especially if you serve international clients.
Customisation
Can you upload your scripts? Do the receptionists pronounce your brand correctly?
CRM Integration
Modern services should sync with tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, or your calendar.
Cost
Avoid hidden charges. Look for per-minute pricing or bundled packages.
Security
Ask about data protection. Services handling personal or sensitive information should be GDPR-compliant.
Benefits of Using a Telephone Answering Service
Increased Professionalism
You present a polished image, even if you work from home.
Reduced Distractions
No more breaking concentration to answer unknown calls.
Lead Capture
Every call is a lead opportunity. Let professionals handle them.
Better Work-Life Balance
Take time off without worrying about missed business.
Who Uses These Services?
Freelancers who travel often
Startups looking for scalable support
Law firms and accountants needing confidentiality
E-commerce brands during peak season
Healthcare clinics managing appointment overflow
They all benefit from live, responsive call management.
How Much Do Telephone Answering Services Cost in the UK?
Prices vary based on minutes, packages, and features. Here's a rough guide:
Basic pay-as-you-go: £1.20–£1.80 per minute
Monthly packages: £30–£200+
Add-ons: Call recording, voicemail, virtual numbers
Always check what's included. Some providers bill per second, others per call.
Why Your Business Can’t Afford to Miss a Call
Let’s face it—people don’t leave voicemails anymore. If your business doesn’t answer, they move on. That’s why investing in the best telephone answering services in UK is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
How IBC Can Help Your Business Stay Ahead
IBC (Ilford Business Centre) is not just a workspace provider. Their telephone answering service stands out because they combine affordability, friendliness, and professionalism. Whether you're an entrepreneur or an established business, IBC ensures your calls are never ignored.
Explore their service offerings at ibc.co.uk and discover how to scale your business with smarter communication.
FAQs
What is a telephone answering service?
It’s a live call handling service where receptionists answer on your behalf, take messages, and transfer calls based on your preferences.
Are telephone answering services suitable for small businesses?
Yes. Most services have flexible plans and no long-term contracts, perfect for SMEs and freelancers.
Can I get a free trial?
Many providers offer 7–14 day free trials to help you test their quality.
Is it secure to let someone else answer my business calls?
Yes, especially if the provider is GDPR-compliant and offers confidentiality agreements.
How quickly do I get notified of new messages?
Most services send messages in real time via SMS, email, or mobile app.