Switch on to the future of connectivity
Make sure your care home is ready for the January 2027 switch-off
In today’s super-connected world, as a care home provider, you no doubt rely on effective communications to operate efficiently, empower staff and create a 24-7 lifeline between residents and their families. If your care home uses analogue communications technology, you’ll need to switch to a new digital communications solution that uses Internet Protocol (IP) across a fibre-based service. Why? In January 2027, BT will be switching off the analogue telephone network known as the PSTN.
It’s the biggest change to communications for a generation and will impact many businesses across the UK, including the residential care sector. The good news is that making the move from analogue to digital isn’t just about swapping like for like. As well as providing high-quality calls and fast, reliable internet access, an IP-based communications solution can offer you a whole range of other benefits. These include cost savings, flexibility and scalability, advanced call handling features, better security and smarter working.
What’s happening and when?
In September 2023, BT introduced a ‘stop-sell’ on analogue communications solutions. Therefore, it’s no longer possible to order new landlines, ISDN lines or broadband connectivity solutions that use the PSTN.
By January 2027, the entire analogue network will be switched off. That means you must have an alternative digital solution in place. And remember, it’s not just about voice calls and internet access. You’ll need a new digital connectivity solution for anything that’s currently dependent on the PSTN to function, including fax machines, CCTV, security alarms, lift alarms, alarm pendants and door entry systems.
Switch your care home on to the benefits of full fibre
Installing a full-fibre IP-based telecoms solution will enable your staff to be more efficient and productive, as well as providing an enhanced experience for your residents and their families. Here are just some of the benefits:
- Lower costs. With cloud-based IP communications technology there’s no need for extra investment in network infrastructure or hardware.
- Speed and power. A fibre-based IP solution can offer the bandwidth you need for all your residents to simultaneously use any devices, including smartphones, tablets and PCs.
- Flexibility. Your phone number can sit on your desk phone, your laptop and your mobile. Plus, should something happen, such as your internet connection is lost or your laptop breaks, you can log in on a different device or a different location, enabling calls to be made and answered.
- Scalability. Cloud hosting means it’s really easy to add new phone lines, for example in residents’ rooms to enable them to stay in touch with loved ones.
- Advanced call features, including holding, transferring, caller ID and call recording, as well as integration with messaging, chat and email.
- Smarter working. Softphone and mobile apps enable employees to receive calls, messages and voicemails in any location – around the care home or externally.
- Enhanced care. IP technology can empower staff to deliver excellent service. For example, they can be equipped with internet-enabled tablets loaded with apps which link directly to GPs for ordering repeat prescriptions or reporting key health information.
Why make the change to digital now?
January 2027 may still seem like a long way away. However, now’s the time to start making the move to digital. It will enable you to choose and deploy the right solution, as well as getting ahead of the inevitable last-minute rush.
How can we help?
At Cambridge Telecom we have over 17 years’ experience in the care home sector. Read this case study to see how we’ve helped one care home client take full advantage of the benefits of a Hosted VoIP solution.
We can help you successfully make the journey from analogue to digital communications. We’ll take care of everything, carrying out a free review of your current telecoms, understanding your needs, finding out what’s available in your area and proposing a practical, cost-effective solution.
Call our sales team on 01223 661636 or email enquiries@cambridgetelecom.com