Lifesaving alarm users need to take action as copper system being made redundant

The much-anticipated changeover from traditional copper to digital landlines is now in progress, raising concerns for those dependent on telecare alarms. A joint campaign launched today by BT, Virgin Media and the UK government calls on users and their loved ones to come forward urgently.

With these critical telecare alarms assisting two million vulnerable people within the UK, it's imperative that anyone who depends on one, or knows someone who does, contacts their telecom provider. Minister of State for Care, Stephen Kinnock, commented: "Patient safety is our priority and by supporting this campaign we are making sure that no-one will be put at risk by having to use unreliable devices. We are working with communication providers who are delivering the digital phone switchover to make sure no-one falls through the cracks."

Local councils and private telecare providers are working together to identify vulnerable people who may be affected by the switchover.

Engineers will be sent to carry out the change and test the alarms in person to minimise the risk of being disconnected during the change.

Additional free support, such as a complimentary battery back-up device, may also be available.

Ann, a 90 year old resident of Stockport, shared her experience of the switchover after becoming reliant on a telecare device following a fall last year.

She said: "It's left me feeling more reassured and confident. It's also given my daughter Vickey peace of mind, knowing that if I need support, my pendant will work as it should. I'd encourage other people like me who rely on a personal alarm to get in touch with their landline provider for support."

The switchover, which began in 2017, has already seen two-thirds of landlines transition to the digital system.

The awareness campaign aims to identify any remaining users who may have been missed previously.

Amy Low, CEO of AbilityNet, commented: "As a charity our core aim is empowering older and disabled people to use technology, so we're fully behind this campaign which will raise further awareness to the most vulnerable, as well as their carers, with an urgent message to act."

The ageing copper network is becoming increasingly unreliable as it's outpaced by modern technology, with some parts now obsolete, making maintenance unfeasible.

Rob Orr, Chief Operations Officer at Virgin Media O2, commented: "With traditional analogue landlines becoming less and less reliable, the programme is an essential step to safeguard services for the future. Inaction would mean putting services at risk.

"Our message is clear: if you or someone you know use a telecare alarm, pick up the phone and talk to your provider. Let us know, and we'll support you every step of the way."

Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant also spoke on the matter: "We cannot afford to leave anyone behind during the vital transition to digital landlines. I have personally set a strict checklist of safeguards for industry to comply with before they migrate any telecare user.

"This industry-led campaign marks a further step towards keeping people safe as we boost the resilience of our networks for the digital age. I urge anyone with a telecare alarm - or anyone close to a user of a telecare alarm - to pick up the phone and contact their provider to access the help that's available."