Analogue to Digital Countdown: Why You Must Act Now

At TSA, we are working closely with government, Ofcom, communication providers and our members to ensure the analogue to digital transition is managed safely and effectively. With less than 60 weeks until the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is completely switched off, and many migrations already underway, we are urging all TEC providers, local authorities, and housing associations to act now. The migration to digital offers both a technical challenge and a strategic opportunity to modernise services, strengthen resilience and create a more proactive and connected model of care and housing for the future.

The Urgency of Action

The migration from analogue to digital (A2D) telephone lines is well underway, with the complete closure of all PSTN lines scheduled for 31 January 2027. This deadline is rapidly approaching, and analogue systems will not continue to function reliably. The message is simple and urgent: time is of the essence.

Alyson Scurfield, CEO of TSA, notes:

"If you hold responsibility for any form of TEC, telecare, supported living or warden call system, you have a clear duty to ensure that robust plans for digital readiness are not only in place but being actively delivered. The transition to digital represents a fundamental shift in the national communications infrastructure that underpins vital services. Ensuring readiness is not a technical exercise, but a matter of safety of lives."

It is important to understand that upgrading to digital can take time. Some sector averages are:

• Average time for a digital scheme solution to be installed: up to 3 months
• Average swap out of dispersed analogue alarms to digital per TEC installer: 5 per day
• Average procurement time from tender release to go-live: 6 to 8 months

Safeguarding Service Resilience

Relying on analogue-only equipment as traditional lines are withdrawn presents significant risks to service resilience. As the network evolves, analogue systems will become increasingly unstable. Organisations must take proactive steps to protect the continuity of alarm calls and monitoring services.Taking actionnow reduces the likelihood of service disruption and protects both staff and the people supported.

A Strategic Opportunity,Not a Simple Switch

The A2D migration should not be seen as a like-for-like replacement exercise. It is an opportunity to review and strengthen TEC strategy. Digital technology can support proactive, insight-led services that move beyond reactive response models. Real-timedata can helpanticipateneeds and support more personalised and preventative approaches to care.

Embracing Digital Across Neighbourhoods and Communities

For organisations with landlord responsibilities, the digital transition offers the chance to create a more connected and responsive support offer for both residents and properties. Digital systems can capture data about a person’s health and wellbeing as well as the condition and safety of their home. Combining these insights enables better-informed decision making, improved outcomes and more efficient operations. This should not be treated as two separate streams of work. Digital technology allows these elements to be integrated into a coordinated approach.

Finding Practical Solutions

Budget pressures can make progress challenging, but there are practical approaches available. Funding opportunities, grants and alternative financing models can support transformation. Leasing equipment, for example, can spread costs and reduce the impact of large upfront investment. The key is to make steady progress rather than delay action.

Collaboration and Support

You do not need to navigate this transition alone. TSA can provide independent advice and practical guidance. Working with neighbouring authorities and partners to share learning and develop joint initiatives can also help. Collaboration across the sector will be vital as many of the challenges are shared.

Clear Communication for Everyone

It is essential to communicate changes clearly to individuals who rely on TEC services. The language of digital technology can be confusing, so messages must be simple and reassuring. Campaigns such as BT’s Connected Together provide helpful resources to support clear and accessible communication throughout the transition. TSA has also created resources to aid in communicating with your communities, staff, or networks. Download your digital switch pack: Digital Switchover - Resource Hub

Act Now

The countdown to digital is real and accelerating. Taking action now will maintain the continuity of vital services and unlock the benefits of proactive and connected care. Delay is no longer an option. The time to act is now.

Contact TSA

If you need support in understanding your digital readiness or planning your next steps, TSA is here to help.
Email: membership@tsa-voice.org.uk
Visit:www.tsa-voice.org.uk