"0844 number"

the only number available is an 0844 number, after calls today I could get no information about my mother, nor could I get anyone to pick up a phone, leaving it ringing till it cuts off automatically. This is costly and who benefits? If you only have a mobile what other options are there? I have spent over an hour now trying to discover the health of my mother and still do not know, I did find a number to call for those who dont want the 0844, call 01924212000, still did not get any information though. Good luck!