Scotland accelerates digital telecare transition despite challenges

The Digital Telecare Programme is dedicated to assisting all Scottish Local Authorities, Health and Social Care Partnerships, and Housing Associations as they transition from analogue to digital systems. Sharon Hannah, the Project Manager focusing on housing services, is guiding this critical shift, ensuring a safe and effective move to digital telecare.

In the UK, there are 602 communication providers, including BT, Virgin, and Sky, each with varying approaches and timelines for digital migration. For housing services, a simple like-for-like switch may not be feasible. Several factors must be carefully evaluated, such as telecare supplier readiness, user assessments, housing review requirements, and the creation of long-term strategies for housing services and equipment. While BT has extended its migration deadline to 2027, other communication providers have maintained their original timelines. In Scotland, there is a strong commitment to meeting the 2025 deadline to stay ahead.

Given these complexities, we are working to compile a comprehensive list of housing associations and their corresponding communication providers. We would greatly appreciate your assistance in this effort. Please email selliot@sfha.co.uk with the name of your housing association and your communication supplier.