Big changes are coming to landline phones – here’s how it affects you and your telecare alarm.
By early 2027, the UK’s current landline system is being upgraded to digital technology. This digital switchover change affects everything that uses a landline connection – including telecare alarms that many people rely on for safety.
Why This Matters to You
If you or someone you care about uses:
- A telecare alarm (like an emergency call button), which might also have devices connected to it like a fall detector or CO/smoke alarm.
- Any other safety device connected to a landline
…these may need upgrading to keep working properly. Without action:
⚠️ Emergency alarms might not connect when needed
⚠️ Help calls could be delayed
⚠️ Current devices may stop working completely
But don’t panic, many of our customers already have a digital alarm. And the good news is that no one will be left without help – support is available to make this change smoothly. A national effort is underway to:
- Explain the changes in simple terms
- Help people upgrade their devices at the right time
- Make sure new digital telecare alarms work reliably
What You Should Do Now
Check your devices – if you have a telecare alarm that is connected to your telephone line, contact the landline provider or if you are a Careium customer contact us to ask about upgrades to digital. You can also read our blog post to see pictures of which type of unit you have.
Don’t worry, help is available if you’re unsure what to do. BT and Virgin Media have a set up a website where there is lots of support and information on the switchover.
We’re Here to Help
At Careium, we’re making sure this digital phone switchover is safe and simple by:
- Giving clear advice about the changes
- Providing new digital telecare alarms, at no extra cost, that work perfectly
- Working with councils to protect everyone’s safety
- Written a blog post with your frequently asked questions
Remember: No one will lose their emergency support. If you have questions, call the landline provider now for support or visit digitalphoneswitchover.com to find out more.
Key resources:
- BT and Virgin Media campaign toolkit & guidance
- Careium’s FAQs on the digital switchover
- Digital switchover FAQs | Local Government Association
Other resources: