| Digital Office | Scottish Local Government

Blog: Hanover Warden Call System Rollout with Appello

Blog. By Ricky Jones, Asset Manager, Hanover Scotland. 24.11.2025

Meet the Team

I joined Hanover in March 2025 as an Investment Project Manager in the Asset Management team. With more than 12 years’ experience delivering projects in the private sector, I may be new to housing, but I’ve quickly found my feet – and my passion – working on initiatives that make a real difference to residents’ lives.

I’m currently leading the Warden Call upgrade programme using the new Appello digital system. It’s rewarding to see how this work is already improving safety and connectivity for our customers, particularly older residents who now feel more supported and secure in their own homes. We're especially proud of our focus on accessibility, with tailored training sessions ensuring everyone can use the system with confidence.

None of this would be possible without the fantastic team around me – colleagues across Hanover and our contractor partners. Everyone is completely aligned on delivering the best possible service for residents, and their support is what keeps the programme running so smoothly.

Project Update

We’re now into year two of our four-year programme to upgrade Warden Call technology across all Hanover developments in Scotland – a key step in enhancing digital safety and inclusion for thousands of residents.

Progress so far • 32 developments have already received the new digital Appello system, with seamless installations and positive early adoption • Installation work continues at pace, with more sites scheduled throughout 2025–26, building on valuable feedback to refine our approach.

Why we’re doing it • The new fully digital system uses industry-standard protocols for fast, reliable communication and is future-proofed for the UK’s upgraded telecoms network. It replaces legacy analogue equipment, empowering residents with modern tools that promote independence and peace of mind – all while aligning with Scotland's digital inclusion goals.

Key features and benefits • Voice and video communication between residents and responders, for clearer and more reassuring support • Seamless integration with door entry systems and telecare sensors (e.g., fire alerts) for layered security • Ability to handle multiple calls at once, ensuring no one is left waiting in an emergency • Greater speed, reliability, and accessibility, with simple interfaces designed for all ages and abilities.

Empowering our residents • We're committed to making this upgrade a true success story for digital inclusion. Our dedicated support teams provide hands-on training and one-to-one guidance, turning any initial learning curves into confident daily use. Early feedback from residents already benefiting from the system speaks volumes:

“It will be a positive asset to be able to communicate between flats. The video entry provides more security.”

“Great that you can see people at the door – makes me feel safer.”

“When I attended the meeting, I did not understand. Hanover employees have taken time to show me. I now know how to use the tablet to allow entry to the development.”

“I find the system simple to use.”

“Appreciate seeing callers before opening the main door.”

These stories show the real impact: residents feeling more connected and secure. As we progress, we'll continue listening, adapting, and sharing updates to celebrate every step forward.

Watch this space – together, we're building a safer, more inclusive Scotland!