AIME launches Affiliate Scheme to support companies providing 087 numbers
30th July 2009

London 30th July, 2009

On 1st August 087 numbers will be reclassified as ‘Controlled Premium Rate Services’ (PRS) and this means that regulation will fall under the remit of PhonepayPlus (PP+).

Any company that is reselling 087 services (excluding 0870) will need to follow the PP+ Code of Practice and as such comply with a new set of regulatory practices and responsibilities.  This includes things like registration as a service provider with the Information Commissioners Office, undergoing due diligence processes with your customers, and contributing to the PP+ levy.

What is AIME?

With over 15 years of experience in providing regulatory consultation, information, knowledge and networking support to its members, The Association for Interactive Media & Entertainment (AIME) is the UK trade organisation for the premium rate industry. We promote excellence in interactive media, working to create an environment of consumer trust and industry confidence within which our members’ businesses can grow.

Our membership includes the UK’s leading Network Operators and Service Providers.

So how can AIME help?

We have worked with our members to put together an ‘Affiliate Membership’ package.   As an Affiliate Member we will provide you with all of the support that you need to effect a smooth transition to the premium rate environment and beyond.  This includes regulatory advice, a dedicated web page to 087 information & resources, news updates on issues affecting 087, opportunities to network and share information with industry peers and discounts to legal & regulatory support

AIME is already working to improve the regulatory environment that now impacts your business, by representing industry views to Ofcom on their regulatory Scope Review and PP+ 12th Code Consultation. Importantly we are proactively driving a set of Industry Initiatives that will support your business, including:

• Promoter Registration (proportionate regulatory responsibility at the point of sale)
• Service Provider Best Practice
• Call Cost transparency - callcosts.co.uk

Tony Couch, Head of Wholesale Partners (Inbound) at Opal and AIME board member said: “By default 087 providers will be paying for PP+ regulation through the levy system so it makes perfect sense to understand the new regulatory landscape and find a voice through AIME.”

To see a full list of Affiliate Membership benefits please contact us:

Contacts:

AIME website:  www.aimelink.org
AIME Secretariat: 08445 828 828
PhonepayPlus - You can contact PP+ for compliance advice www.phonepayplus.org.uk.