We’ll soon have four new virtual operators (VOP) joining our Switchboard Team at HRI who will be working alongside our current switchboard colleagues. The aim is to help people get to the person or department they need quicker, and help the team manage the 60,000 calls they get each month.

Anyone calling the switchboard number at HRI (01484 342000) will be able to reach the same extension numbers they do now, but they will be connected either through a VOP or with a colleague. You will still be able to call numbers directly and connect to the same numbers as you do now. 

The Switchboard will still be manned by a colleague, and if a caller needs support, they will still be there to help. 

The new system is due to go live soon and we’ll keep colleagues updated with further information. There will be no change when calling the switchboard at CRH.

Further information

Switchboard and Health Informatics colleagues have updated the numbers which will be programmed into the system so they are more accurate. 

When you first call the Switchboard, you will be greeted and asked to provide the name of a person or extension number of department, or operator.

The system will include alternative names, automatically adding common variants to names or departments. For example, anyone asking for A&E can be connected using A&E, ED or emergency department. Alternative personal names will also be provided. So William Jones will automatically be provided with Will Jones and Bill Jones as alternative names (for example).