A major project to upgrade a life-saving alarm service in Somerset before the national digital switchover has been completed ahead of schedule.
In 2023, the UK Government announced a nationwide plan to transition to digital-only telephone lines before the end of 2025.
One of the services that was affected by this announcement in Somerset was Somerset Lifeline; a low-cost pendant alarm service provided by Somerset Council for anyone who needs support at home or may be at risk of falling.
Over the past 13 months, the Somerset Lifeline team has replaced more than 6,000 analogue units with digital-enabled careline devices. These new units connect users directly to Somerset Lifeline’s 24/7 monitoring centre, ensuring continued safety and support for vulnerable residents across the region.
By working closely with users of the service and professionals, Somerset Lifeline has also developed tailored solutions for residents in remote areas with poor mobile signal or frequent power outages, providing further peace of mind to the individuals who use them and their families. This all came at no cost to Somerset Lifeline customers.
Councillor Sarah Wakefield, Lead Member for Adults Services, Housing and Homelessness at Somerset Council, said:
I’m sure that achieving a switch from analogue to digital Lifeline devices across the entire county was no mean feat, and it’s even more impressive that the team reached this goal several months ahead of deadline.
With the winter months approaching, I hope that Somerset Lifeline customers and their families feel assured that their devices are completely up-to-date and compatible with the new digital phoneline system.
This short video gives a summary about Somerset Lifeline. For more information, visit their website.
Somerset Lifeline equipment is also available to view at Somerset Independent Living Centres (SILCs). For more information, including how to book a free SILC appointment and what to expect when you visit, see here.
