Home / Technology / Millions Rely on Outdated Alarms as UK Shifts to Digital Landlines
Millions Rely on Outdated Alarms as UK Shifts to Digital Landlines
20 Aug
Summary
- 1.8 million UK adults rely on personal alarms, many of which will soon be obsolete
- Analogue devices still sold despite digital switchover deadline of January 2027
- Providers not always clear about risks of continuing to use analogue alarms
In the UK, personal alarms are a lifeline for 1.8 million older adults, people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness or injury. However, as the country shifts from analogue landlines to digital telephone systems, these vital devices may soon become obsolete.
The final deadline for the digital switchover is January 2027, but a growing majority of the UK has already made the transition. This means that many analogue telecare systems are no longer reliable. Researchers from Which? found that some providers are still selling outdated analogue products, even though they could put lives at risk.
While some companies, like Careline365 and LifeConnect24, do provide reasonably clear explanations about the digital switchover, they continue to sell analogue alarms. The language of "upgrading" to digital devices also fails to convey the urgency of the situation. Tragically, two vulnerable people died in 2023 when their personal alarms failed to work after their landlines were switched off.
The government has urged telecare suppliers to stop manufacturing and selling analogue equipment, but the problem persists. Experts say there is no excuse for businesses in this sector to be unaware of the impending digital transition. With the deadline looming, it is crucial that providers take immediate action to protect the millions of people who rely on these vital devices.
