Personal alarms and telecare devices

As the UK moves towards Full Fibre Broadband and Digital Voice, it's important to understand what type of Telecare device you have, and how it connects.

Some devices rely on older phone landlines, while others use broadband or mobile networks. Before signing up to a Full Fibre broadband plan, it’s important to know which type of telecare device you’re using, as this can affect compatibility and reliability.

This guide explains the different types of telecare devices, how they work, the UK’s Digital Switchover from traditional copper to digital landlines, and what to consider before switching to Full Fibre broadband — without the tech waffle.

Analogue telecare devices use the traditional analogue telephone network (also known as the PSTN) to send alarm signals. This means they require a landline to work.

When an alarm is triggered, the device dials out using analogue tones — like how old dial‑up internet and fax machines did.

This technology is being phased out as part of the UK’s Digital Switchover. Analogue phone lines are due to be fully replaced by the end of 2027, so these devices are gradually becoming unsupported.

Analogue telecare devices do not work over Full Fibre broadband without additional equipment or upgrades.

Instead of using telephone landlines, they send alarm data over a digital network, such as broadband or a digital home phone service. Data is transmitted as secure packets over an Internet Protocol (IP) connection — the same technology the internet itself runs on.

The big bonus? You don’t need a landline to use an IP telecare device.

Because they’re built for modern networks, IP telecare devices are generally well‑suited to Full Fibre broadband and future‑proofed against changes to the phone network.

GSM telecare devices use the mobile phone network, rather than a landline or broadband connection.

These systems work in a similar way to traditional telecare devices, but instead of dialling out through a phone line, the base unit contains a SIM card that connects to a 24‑hour monitoring centre.

Some devices use multi‑network roaming SIMs, which automatically connect to the strongest available mobile signal for added reliability.

GSM telecare is often a good option for people who don’t have a home phone line or live in areas with reliable mobile coverage.

A hybrid telecare device combines more than one connection method — usually broadband (IP) and mobile (GSM).

If one connection fails, the system automatically switches to the backup. This is known as failover protection, and it helps ensure alarms still reach the monitoring centre even during outages.

Hybrid devices are increasingly popular because they’re built to handle changes in home technology — including moves to Full Fibre broadband.

You’re not alone — many people aren’t sure how their telecare system connects.

If you’re thinking about switching broadband, it’s a good idea to:

• Check your telecare device paperwork
• Look for references to analogue, IP, digital, or GSM
• Speak to your telecare provider or monitoring centre

They can confirm whether your setup is compatible with broadband‑only services and advise if any upgrades are needed.

If you rely on personal alarms or telecare devices, you’ll be supported throughout your Full Fibre upgrade by specially trained engineers. Should your device be found incompatible at any stage, the engineer will restore your service to your existing copper line—so you stay protected at all times.

To make sure you receive the right support, it’s important that you let us know if you use a personal alarm or telecare device. You can contact us on 0345 172 0088 to discuss your options.