Countdown Campaign - May: Staying Connected

As Scotland moves closer to the planned switch-off of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) in January 2027, telecare services are undergoing a major transformation.

 

Across the country, services have already made significant progress. All Telecare Service Providers are now operating within digital Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) environments, a crucial milestone in the transition from analogue to digital. While this shift presents new opportunities, it also brings new challenges.

 

Why connectivity matters more than ever

 

Unlike analogue systems, digital telecare depends on broadband, mobile, and IP-based networks. This means that connectivity is no longer just a technical consideration, it is fundamental to delivering safe, reliable support to service users. Variability in connectivity can directly impact how well telecare systems perform, particularly for those who rely on them most.

 

What challenges are we seeing?

Through ongoing engagement with local authorities, Health and Social Care Partnerships (HSCPs), and suppliers, several common issues have emerged:

 -Variable mobile coverage

Signal strength can be inconsistent, particularly in rural and remote areas, and even within properties depending on building layout and materials. 

-Broadband limitations

Not all homes have access to reliable broadband, and some individuals choose not to install it. Even where it is available, performance can vary.

 -Power dependence

Unlike analogue landlines, digital services rely on local power. Outages can therefore affect connectivity and service continuity.

 -Limited awareness of alternatives

While solutions exist, knowledge of them is not consistently shared across the sector, meaning good practice isn’t always widely adopted.

 -Learning from what works

Encouragingly, there is already a growing body of practical experience across Scotland.

Telecare providers are testing and implementing a range of solutions, including:

-LoRaWAN technology

-Signal-enhancing solutions

-Advanced dispersed alarm units with improved aerial capability

 

Capturing and sharing these experiences through case studies is proving invaluable. It allows organisations to learn from each other, avoid duplication, and accelerate progress. A more joined-up approach to sharing learning will be key to building resilience across the sector.

 

Looking ahead: building more resilient services

Work is continuing at a national level to better understand connectivity challenges and identify scalable solutions. This includes maintaining a strong awareness of emerging technologies by working closely with suppliers, monitoring innovation, and participating in pilots and testing. By sharing learning and evaluating new solutions as they develop, the sector can make informed decisions and ensure telecare services remain resilient and future-ready.

 

 A shared, national effort

Connectivity is one of the biggest challenges, but also one of the biggest opportunities in the transition to digital telecare. Progress so far has been strong, but no single organisation can solve these challenges alone. By working collaboratively, sharing learning, and taking a coordinated national approach, Scotland can ensure telecare services remain:

-Safe

-Reliable

-Resilient

-Equitable for all citizens

 

As we move towards 2027, staying connected, in every sense, will be critical.

 

Want to get involved?

 

We’re continuing to work with partners across the sector to understand challenges, test solutions, and share learning. If you have examples, insights, or case studies to contribute, we’d love to hear from you.