The process of planning and moving to digital telecare is likely to take some time to complete. Given that customers’ digital telephone line migrations have already commenced, the switchover has the potential to impact telecare for housing associations before a fully digital telecare service is put in place. 

The digital switchover telecare checklist produced by the local government association provides guidance on the processes that need to be considered to ensure a seamless transition to digital telecare for housing providers. 

As highlighted in our blog looking at how ready we are for the digital switch, the shift to digital telecare is imperative and all stakeholders are now recommending immediate action. 

The government’s policy paper, ‘Telecare stakeholder action plan: preparations for the analogue to digital switchover’, was published at the end of 2022. While perhaps somewhat behind the curve (particularly given Scottish Local Government published its National Briefing Document several years ago), it’s good to see digital telecare now firmly on the agenda throughout the UK. 

The plan highlights the time-critical nature of moving to digital telecare, providing an overview of the risks and opportunities of the digital switchover. 

It also sets out an action plan focused on the individuals who rely on telecare services. Key areas include encouraging co-ordination between telecare stakeholders, such as manufacturers and service providers, as well as an emphasis on good communication and best practice. 

Alongside this, independent testing by TSA, the TEC industry body, has confirmed the dangers of operating analogue telecare devices across the digital network. Initial test results showed “a significant proportion (of analogue devices) that either function intermittently – or not at all”. 

The data tallies with previous compatibility concerns and demonstrates the importance of a well-planned digital strategy to ensure telecare services are fit for purpose.