What is the digital switchover?
The digital switchover was a decision made by the telecoms industry in 2017, due to the existing landline networks being outdated and difficult to maintain.
The original completion date was set to be 2025, but this has now been pushed back to January 2027 due to concerns about supporting vulnerable people.
What does this mean for me?
For most people this transition between old and new will be straightforward. Your network provider (e.g. the company that provides your telephone line such as Virgin, Sky or BT) is responsible for the work, and for supporting you.
They will contact you to arrange the work, or discuss options with you if you have any concerns.
What if I have a service that relies on a landline?
Certain services need a landline to operate. These could include:
- Telecare services such as pendant alarms for falls
- Fire alarms that link to services
- Burglar alarms.
New digital versions of these are available, and if you are worried about something you have you should speak to your network provider in the first instance. You may also look to speak to the provider of your service (e.g. your telecare provider). They will be able to support you to understand your options and their plans for the transition to a digital service.
What if I am worried about a vulnerable individual?
Ofcom, the independent regulator for telecoms, has worked with network providers to make sure that vulnerable people are not put at risk due to this change.
Ofcom says that providers need to take steps to identify people at risk and ensure they are protected throughout the upgrade process.
Network providers agreed a charter with Ofcom in which they have committed not to switch people to a digital network unless they are protected.
For telecare users, they have also committed to:
- Additional checks to make sure that people who rely on telecare have not been switched and put at risk
- Not to change people to digital unless they have confirmed a digital telecare solution is in place.
If you believe you or someone you know is vulnerable or depends on a landline, you should notify the network provider so that they can support you.
What should I do if I am still worried about the switchover?
Your network provider, or a service provider if you are worried about something like your telecare alarm or fire alarm, is best place to help you with anything you are worried about. It is your providers responsibility to support people through the switchover for their services.
More information can be found online at:
