West Sussex residents who use telecare or an alarm connected to their landline are being encouraged to check their arrangements as the UK moves from traditional analogue landlines to digital technology.
For most people the change should be straightforward, but some telecare and alarm services may be affected.
Residents whose telecare is provided through West Sussex County Council’s commissioned Livity Life service can be reassured that its move from analogue to digital equipment has already been completed.
However, residents may use telecare through other organisations, including private or self-funded services, district or borough careline services and housing-based schemes.
Anyone using another service, or who is unsure who provides their equipment, should contact both their telecare or alarm provider and telephone provider to check whether they need to take any action.
Telecare can include pendant alarms, lifelines, fall detectors and other equipment that helps people live safely and independently at home.
Councillor Richard Bates, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said:
“Telecare can play an important role in helping people remain safe and independent at home, so we want residents to have clear and reassuring information about the digital switchover.
“If your telecare is provided through our commissioned Livity Life service, the equipment changeover has already been completed. If you use another provider, or you’re unsure, please check with your telecare and telephone providers.”
Councillor Tracie Bangert, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said:
“We’d also encourage people to think about relatives, friends or neighbours who use telecare and may need some help understanding the change or contacting their providers.
“A simple conversation can help make sure people know who provides their equipment and whether there is anything they need to do.”
Telephone and telecare providers are responsible for managing their own moves to digital services and advising customers about any action required. West Sussex County Council can provide general information and signposting but cannot test, repair or confirm the compatibility of equipment supplied by another provider.
Residents who rely on telecare or their landline should also ask their providers what arrangements are available during a power cut.
Printed information will be available through West Sussex libraries and Family Hubs as part of the awareness campaign.
