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What is the BT Digital Transition?

As the demand for technology like laptops, tablets, and smart devices grows, the UK’s communications infrastructure needs to be upgraded. National telecoms infrastructure providers are responding by upgrading their networks, gradually replacing analogue lines with digital ones. This will require phones to be connected to an analogue telephone adapter (ATA) box or router provided by the user’s communications provider. Openreach (BT) plans to complete this work by December 2025, enhancing system capacity and capability and laying the groundwork for future technological advancement.

Overview

The migration from analogue PSTN lines to Digital IP lines across the UK has been widely communicated across the TEC industry, but there is still some confusion over the timings of the switch over and the practical implications for organisations who have different manufacturers of Warden Call Systems.  Many warden call systems would have been upgraded or installed in the last 5 years and the thought of having to upgrade again is unpalatable.  The original manufacturers of the warden call systems are also running at different speeds and with different solutions to ensure their schemes are digitally ready.  It can be very confusing as to what to do. There is no doubt that ending up in an ALL-IP world is where many customers will end up, however the transition need to be measured, well planned and provide the most cost-effective solution.

How does this impact the Telecare Sector?

The BT Digital Transition significantly impacts the telecare sector in England. Let’s delve into the details:

 

1. The Digital Shift:

 

  • The transition from analogue to digital telephone lines in the UK is happening gradually, with completion expected by the end of 2025.

  • This shift affects technology-enabled care (TEC) and telecare devices that currently rely on analogue telephone lines for connection, communication, and power backup.

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2. Challenges for Telecare:

 

  • Telecare systems, including personal alarms and monitoring devices, may no longer work reliably after the digital shift.

  • Approximately 1.8 million people across the UK rely on TEC and telecare services. Their alarm calls could fail to connect to monitoring centre's if systems are not adapted or upgraded in time.

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3. Preparedness and Planning:

 

  • Adequate planning is crucial for organizations involved in delivering and supplying TEC and telecare services.

  • Whether funded through health or social care budgets or privately funded, providers must prepare for the digital transition.

 

4. Stakeholders Involved:

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  • Telecare service providers (Local Authorities, housing providers, health).

  • Industry bodies representing social care and housing providers.

  • Service user representatives.

  • Suppliers (telecare/TEC equipment and service providers, telecoms providers).

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5. Recommendations and Action Plan:


The Department of Health and Social Care has produced a Telecare Stakeholder Action Plan.
In summary, the BT Digital Transition necessitates proactive adaptation and upgrades within the telecare sector to ensure continued safety and reliable communication for vulnerable individuals.

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You can read the full report here

Our Solution

Network Communication Systems are delighted to announce its revolutionary Universal Digital Communicator, UDC.

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  • A versatile product, the UDC can provide reliable proven communication from an EXISTING Warden Call System to a Digitally Ready Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC).

Universal Digital Communicator Illustration
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