Teletypewriter (TTY) 711 relay services

Teletypewriter (TTY) 711 relay services may help people who are Deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability communicate with people who use a standard telephone.

If you use a TTY device, dial 711 to connect with a relay operator. The operator helps relay the conversation between you and the person you are calling.

What is a TTY?

A TTY is a device that allows people to type messages over a telephone line instead of speaking.

TTY users type their messages, and a relay operator reads those messages to the person who uses a standard telephone. The operator then types the spoken response back to the TTY user.

How 711 relay service works

1. Dial 711 from your TTY device
2. Provide the phone number you want to call.
3. The relay operator places the call.
4. Type your message.
5. The operator relays the conversation between both parties.

All relay conversations are confidential. Relay operators are trained to relay messages accurately and impartially.

When to use TTY 711

You can use TTY 711 to:

• Contact government services.
• Call businesses and organizations.
• Make appointments.
• Request information.
• Speak with customer service representatives.
• Connect with family and friends.

Contacting Durham Region

If you use a TTY device, you can use 711 relay services to contact Durham Region programs and services that are available by phone.

When calling through a relay service:

• Dial 711 first.
• Provide the Durham Region phone number 905-668-7711.
• Wait while the relay operator connects your call.

Need help?

If you have questions about relay services, contact your telephone service provider or visit the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Communications' (CRTC) Message Relay Services page for information about available accessibility services.