Government Launches National Campaign to Raise Awareness of Digital Switchover and its Impact on Personal Alarms
As the UK’s analogue phone network is nearing its end-of-life, the government has taken action to inform the public of the upcoming digital switchover and how it will affect telecare services. With thousands of older and vulnerable people relying on personal alarms to remain safe and independent at home, it is crucial that they are aware of the changes and take necessary steps to ensure their alarms will continue to function.
Leading personal alarm company, Taking Care, has also joined in on the effort to raise awareness and is calling for the industry to provide clearer and more practical advice to individuals and families who may benefit from an alarm but do not currently have one. This will ensure that people only purchase digital-ready alarms and are not misled by pricing or unexpected upgrade charges.
While Taking Care supports the government’s campaign to inform existing alarm users, they express concern over some providers still selling analogue-only alarms despite the approaching switchover.
“We’re proud to have been a part of this government initiative and we applaud their recognition of telecare as a critical, life-saving service,” says Steve Gates, Managing Director at Taking Care. “However, we are disappointed to see that some providers are still selling analogue alarms and promoting them as cheaper options, which is misleading and puts vulnerable adults at risk.”
Taking Care has been providing fully digital alarms since 2022 and has plans in place to support or upgrade their existing analogue alarm customers. In addition, they have launched a dedicated online resource, www.taking.care/checkmyalarm, where people can check the type of alarm they have and learn what to look for when purchasing a new, future-ready device.
“We are committed to providing clear and practical advice to ensure that individuals seeking a new life-saving personal alarm do not inadvertently purchase an outdated analogue device,” says Steve Gates. “It is crucial for people to have access to accurate information to ensure their next alarm is fully digital and ready for the future.”
Taking Care advises new customers to look for providers that:
– Sell only digital personal alarms
– Are accredited by the TSA (Telecare Services Association)
– Provide clear and upfront pricing with no hidden costs
– Include data, SIM, and software upgrades as standard
The government’s campaign and Taking Care’s efforts aim to reduce confusion and ensure that vulnerable individuals are well-informed and protected during the digital switchover. This news story was distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/.