New government guidance for housing providers in England sets out how to keep residents’ telecare alarms working during the digital phone switchover. Published on 8 October, it is particularly relevant if you provide an alarm for a tenant or manage a building with a shared warden-call system.
Telecare lets a resident summon help, for example through a pendant or pull cord. An analogue alarm can become unreliable or stop working when its phone line moves to digital. The national switchover is due to be completed by January 2027, although individual lines may change earlier.
Where an alarm is used in your property
If you supply the equipment, the guidance asks housing providers to identify their alarms and any connected systems, and tell the phone or broadband provider which connections carry telecare calls. Work with the telecare provider and the centre that receives alarm calls to check compatibility, arrange testing and plan how the service will work during a power cut.
If a tenant has arranged their own personal alarm, let them know they need to tell their phone provider that they use telecare. The provider can then arrange extra support during the changeover.
Some shared alarm systems also connect to fire detection, lifts or door entry. Before changing a system in supported housing, involve the person responsible for fire safety so the effect on the building’s fire arrangements and risk assessment can be considered. Replacement arrangements need to preserve any other functions linked to the old equipment.
Sources
- Department of Health and Social Care: telecare guidance for housing providers, published 8 October 2026.
- GOV.UK: moving landlines to digital technologies, published 28 May 2025.
