February 12th 2025
Digital Care Hub welcomes the Government’s Telecare National Action Plan, which sets out the steps needed to protect telecare users as the UK transitions from analogue to digital phone lines by 2027. This plan recognises the critical importance of ensuring that telecare services remain safe and effective throughout the switchover.
The plan outlines a series of key actions across government, telecare providers, telecoms companies, and the social care sector to minimise risks and disruption. It highlights the need for clear communication, collaboration, and support for care providers and service users.
As part of Action 3: Supporting telecare service providers and users, the Government has recognised the role of the Digital Care Hub in providing guidance and practical support to adult social care providers. Our role is to ensure care providers have access to the latest information, advice, and resources to help them manage the transition smoothly and safely.
Katie Thorn, Project Lead at Digital Care Hub, said:
“The digital switchover is one of the most important challenges facing the social care sector. It has significant implications for telecare services, which almost over 2 million people in the UK rely on for their safety and independence. Digital Care Hub welcomes the opportunity to support the sector through this transition, building on our work with Digitising Social Care. We will continue to provide clear, practical guidance to help care providers navigate this change and ensure the continuity of vital services.”
Digital Care Hub is committed to:
- Helping care providers understand the impact of the switchover on telecare services.
- Offering clear, accessible guidance on the steps they need to take.
- Signposting to resources and best practice to support a seamless transition.
- Ensuring care providers are aware of their responsibilities and the available support.
For more information and support, visit Digital Care Hub’s information on the digital switchover.
Notes to Editors
- What is telecare?
Telecare services provide remote monitoring and support to people in their homes, often using personal alarms, fall detectors, or other assistive technology. These systems help older and vulnerable individuals maintain independence while ensuring they can quickly access help in an emergency. - How does the digital switchover impact telecare?
The UK’s transition from analogue to digital phone lines by 2027 means that many telecare devices, which currently rely on traditional landline connections, may stop working or experience reliability issues if they are not upgraded. Unlike analogue systems, digital phone lines do not work during power cuts without additional backup solutions. The Government’s Telecare National Action Plan sets out measures to ensure telecare users remain protected throughout the transition. - What is Digital Care Hub’s role?
Digital Care Hub has been identified as a key organisation in Action 3 of the plan, supporting care providers by providing guidance and best practice to help them prepare for the digital switchover. Our work builds on our collaboration with Digitising Social Care to ensure social care providers have the knowledge and resources they need to adapt effectively.
Press contact
Iris Steen [email protected]
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