Ensuring continuity of care: Adapting to the PSTN Switch-Off with advanced telecom solutions

Nearly 150 years ago, Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Watson’s first telephone call revolutionised communication, laying the groundwork for the extensive Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) we’ve relied on for generations. However, as technology advances, so too must our communication infrastructure. Last year, UK residents made nearly 200 billion minutes of phone calls, but with mobile phones now accounting for over 80% of calls and the rapid expansion of Full Fibre (FTTP) internet, traditional copper-based lines are fast becoming a relic of the past.

This resulted in the PSTN Switch-off announcement in 2023, which outlined the termination of traditional phone lines in January 2025, subsequently delayed until 2027. Many people may reasonably ask “what is the big deal?”.

Whilst many of us are delighted with the fast FTTP and 5G connections that enable us to video conference from home, download films and stream music, there are many people that still rely on a traditional phone line for specific, and often critical telecare services that rely on the power feed or ‘line current’.

According to the Department of Health and Social Care; “Telecare services are a vital means of preventing, reducing or delaying the development of care and support needs, giving independence to nearly 2 million people. Digital systems will create a basis for a next generation of telecare services that can detect signs of health deterioration. Yet, at the moment, many vulnerable telecare users are at risk of losing their protection the day their telephone line goes digital. The need to mitigate this risk is urgent.”

For those that rely on the traditional phone line for services such as panic buttons, alarm call systems and connected care services. people and their families, this a huge deal, and whilst some respite has been afforded by the delay in the PSTN Switch-off, this is only a temporary reprieve.

The good news is, there are newer and better solutions, that provide all the same benefits as traditional phone-line based services, and many, many more features to protect the elderly and vulnerable people in our society, whilst also enriching their lives.

dbfb, a leader in Fibre FTTP and Mobile Internet services, recognises the importance of safeguarding these vital services during the transition. In partnership with Iris, a local IoT specialist, dbfb is offering a comprehensive suite of connected care solutions designed to replace and enhance traditional telecare services. These innovative solutions, which include panic buttons, motion sensors, and additional features like medication reminders and video calls, ensure that vulnerable individuals remain protected and connected.

The solutions combine dbfb’s extensive suite of digital connectivity services and responsive support, together with the Genus Care frame, developed specifically by Iris IoT to provide a full suite of connected care, including panic buttons, motion indicator and alarm calling, together with a range of add on services such as medication reminders, video calling to family and friends and sensors for temperature, humidity and air quality.

The solutions have been made available via Service Offer’s on the Crown Commercial Services, Network Services 3 Framework, enabling Local Authorities and other bodies to procure services quickly and easily, whilst benefiting from the reliable contract and support services that dbfb offer.

“Quote from Stuart Smith/dbfb”

“Quote from Stephen Westley/Iris IoT”