Manx Telecom has signed up to a scheme which offers universal helpline numbers across Europe. The 116 numbers were allocated by Ofcom and cover a range of services. 116 numbers allow anyone travelling around Europe to access providers of similar services by calling the same six-digit number, making it easier for visitors to find the right number when they need help or advice. 116 numbers are available on Manx Telecom fixed line and mobile phones. The following services are available via the 116 scheme: 116000 – a hotline for missing children; 116111 – Childline Service; 116123 – Samaritans. Two more services are also set to become available in the future: 116006 – victims of crime; 116117 – non-emergency medical on-call service. All of the numbers are freephone numbers, apart from 116006 for which there is a charge when dialling from a mobile. Graham Shimmin, Head of Product Management at Manx Telecom, said: “We are happy to comply with Ofcom’s recommendations to ensure that our Isle of Man customers, and visitors to the Island, can make use of the new pan-European short codes for charities and helplines.” - Ends -