Openreach started using SHE’s, Subtended Head Ends a couple of years back.
They’re normally placed in Cabinets but can also be placed inside Exchanges although that’s not ideal.
A SHE is basically a Child Head End that’s Linked to a Larger Head End somewhere else. They’re mostly used in more rural areas where the cost of getting a Large Spine Cable far outweighs the cost of building a SHE that utilities existing Fibre Spine.
They’re normally placed next to or very near existing RDSLAMS as they need Power.
Good news - after being away for a few days we arrived home to find the PON light solid green. On checking, the hub was working and we had a fast internet connection and digital telephone signals.
I am just waiting now for our next BT bill to arrive to check we have been compensated for the late activation date.
Thanks to everyone who helped.