The UK’s analogue Public Switched Telephone Network is being retired as providers move landline services to digital technologies. Current government guidance says PSTN-reliant devices, including UK landlines, need to be upgraded by January 2027.
For telecare, this is a safety and service-continuity programme—not merely a telecoms change.
Identify every dependency
Services need an accurate record of users, connection types, analogue equipment, peripherals, ARC routes and responsible communications providers. Do not assume a familiar alarm will behave identically after being connected to a digital line.
The government’s Telecare National Action Plan says users should not be migrated without confirmation that a compatible, functioning solution is in place.
Test end to end
Compatibility on paper is not enough. Test device activation, protocol transmission, caller identification, two-way speech, peripheral alerts, ARC handling and power-loss arrangements across the intended connection.
Record the result at individual installation level and retest after changes.
Communicate clearly with users
Explain who is making the change, whether a visit is required and how identity will be verified. Digital switchover scams are a recognised concern. Users should know that they can contact their communication provider and telecare service through trusted numbers.
Consider mobile pathways where appropriate
Mobile telecare does not rely on the user’s fixed analogue landline, but it introduces its own requirements: supported mobile coverage, charging, SIM/service management and tested response processes.
OwnFone Mobile uses roaming mobile connectivity and can be configured to an ARC. Footprint provides a mobile GPS telecare option with portal and location capabilities. These may be relevant within a wider digital strategy, subject to assessment and testing.
Keep guidance current
Dates and provider programmes can change. Use current government landline guidance, communications-provider information and local governance rather than relying on an old project plan.
The transition is complete only when every user has a working, understood and supported pathway—not when equipment has merely been delivered.