Hi @iancohen
Welcome to our Community Help Forum.
Thank you for your post regarding the issue you are experiencing with the update not working on your SIM. I'm really sorry for any frustration caused by this.
As advised by @DJ_Shadow1966, unfortunately the update will only work when you are in the UK connected to the home network.
Thank you for your feedback and concerns regarding this process, I understand it may not be ideal for you to have your father activate the SIM. To activate the new SIM that will be sent, your father can follow the steps outlined here.
Regarding your security concerns, I would recommend posting the SIM via tracked Royal Mail Special Delivery as this is a fully tracked, secure service.
Unfortunately we are unable to extend the date or post SIMs abroad. Apologies for the inconvenience,
Serena