Is Your Care Service Ready for the Analogue Switch-Off?

The adult social care sector is being urged to take immediate action as the UK prepares for the full retirement of the analogue telephone network. By 2027, the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) – the long-standing infrastructure supporting traditional landline services – will be permanently switched off.

This nationwide transition means all landline-based technologies, including those critical to care services such as careline systems, fire alarms and door entry systems, must be upgraded to digital alternatives like internet-based systems or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).

What Does This Mean for Adult Social Care Providers?

Care England has issued a clear message: every provider should have a digital transition plan in place. This plan should consider continuity of service, safety, and compliance, as some current analogue-based equipment will not be compatible with digital systems and may require complete replacement.

Systems connected through the PSTN that are likely to be affected include:

• Emergency pull cords and pendant alarms

• Nurse call systems

• Fire panels

• Lift alarms

• Security systems and CCTV

• Fax machines and telephony

• Certain half-hour electricity meters

Support for Older People and Service Users

Age UK has created a guidance page on its website aimed at supporting older individuals living at home. It clarifies that landlines themselves are not being discontinued, but rather the underlying phone network is being upgraded. For most people, the switch should be straightforward, though some may need new equipment or in-home support to make the transition.

Importantly, Age UK warns that once connected to the digital network, landline phones will not work during power outages. This makes it vital for users to have a backup, such as a charged mobile phone or a battery-powered support unit for emergency use.

What Are Telecom Providers Doing to Help?

BT has started proactively reaching out to customers with known vulnerabilities or additional needs, particularly those living in areas where it’s possible to identify users of telecare alarms. If contacted, individuals should inform their provider if they use such systems or require extra assistance.

Other telephone providers will also be in touch with their customers to notify them of when their service will be switched to digital. It’s worth noting that anyone changing their phone or broadband package may also be moved over to the new system as part of the upgrade.

Taking Action Now

The analogue switch-off is not a distant event – the changes are already underway. For adult social care providers, planning ahead is essential to prevent disruption to vital services and ensure continued safety for the people they support.

If you haven’t yet started preparing, now is the time to review your current systems, speak with your technology providers, and develop a clear transition strategy.