In-depth examination of the implementation of free calling to 113

The phone number 113 in the Netherlands is currently designated as a helpline for suicide prevention since 2020. Stichting 113 Zelfmoordpreventie provides assistance through the number 113, an 0800 number, and other numbers, as well as through a chat function on 113.nl. The Dutch House of Representatives finds it important that the suicide helpline is free to call, even for callers with no or limited call credit. However, this is not prescribed by regulations for the number 113. In this study, we explored how the number could be made toll-free and what the government would need to do for this. As part of the research, a sample was taken to assess to what extent calling 113 is currently free. It appears that calling 113 is already free for most providers. Some providers have made the number free of charge during the research (and possibly in response to it). The number has recently been communicated as the primary number by Stichting 113. Although being able to call 113 for free is now largely achieved, it is not yet regulated. To ensure that 113 remains free, a change to the Numbering Plan is necessary. In addition to prescribing a zero rate for 113, adjustments are required to ensure that telecommunications providers can properly reconcile the call costs for calling 113 among themselves and can choose certain technical implementation routes. Additionally, the government may choose to regulate the reconciliation as well, if necessary. In late 2020, Dialogic previously examined the possibilities for making calling the number 113 toll-free. It was also investigated how to ensure that the number could be called without appearing on the caller's bill (bill anonymity). The research was sent to the Dutch House of Representatives on 10th May.