If you or someone you care for uses a Lifeline alarm system (also known as a personal alarm, fall alarm or careline) you might be wondering how the UK’s switch to digital phone lines will affect it: especially if there’s a power outage.
This guide explains how digital phone lines and alarm systems work together, what changes are coming, and how to make sure your Lifeline alarm keeps working after the PSTN switch-off.
What are Lifeline alarm systems for the elderly and vulnerable?
Lifeline alarms are personal safety telecare devices that help elderly or vulnerable people remain independent. The system usually includes a base station and a wearable pendant or wrist alarm, both connected to a home phone line.
When activated (usually by pressing a button) the device sends an emergency call to a trained responder who can send help. It could be set to call a family member, carer or the emergency services.
What’s happening to phone lines in the UK?
The UK is phasing out the old Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) by the end of 2025. All landline phone calls will be moved to the internet-based Digital Voice system, also known as ‘VoIP’ or ‘Voice over Internet Protocol’.
This means that instead of plugging a phone or alarm system into a wall socket, you’ll connect it to your broadband router - a major change for anyone using older equipment.
Will alarm systems work with digital phone lines and if I’ve upgraded to full fibre broadband?
This depends on the type of alarm system you have.
Digital Lifeline alarms are designed to work with full fibre broadband and digital voice services.
Analogue alarms may stop working after the digital switchover. This could be a problem during power cuts, unless specific steps are taken.
To avoid problems, it’s important to speak to your alarm provider before your broadband or phone service is upgraded to a new digital landline. You may have to request a digital telecare device if you haven’t already been issued with one.
Once connected, test the alarm at least once after the switch to double-check it’s working as it should.
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What is full fibre broadband?
Full fibre broadband (also known as 'FTTP' or 'Fibre-To-The-Property') is a faster, more reliable broadband connection that uses fibre-optic cables instead of traditional copper wires.
The benefits of using full fibre broadband include faster download speeds and a more reliable service.
Can I delay the switch if I rely on a Lifeline alarm?
Yes, you can. If your household includes a user of a Lifeline alarm for the elderly, your broadband provider may delay the switch to digital until you’re ready.
This delay is only temporary, but it can give you enough time to prepare and ensure everything will continue to work safely.
The Public Switched Telephone Network charter protects your right to delay the switch to a digital phone line. Providers signed up to this include Virgin Media, BT, Sky, TalkTalk, Vodafone, KCOM, Zen Internet, Ogi and Broadband for the Rural North (B4RN).
What’s an analogue telephone adapter?
If you’re not ready to upgrade your Lifeline system, a short-term option is to use an Analogue Telephone Adapter (ATA). This allows older alarms to connect to a digital line via your broadband router.
It’s not a permanent fix, but it can help keep the alarm system working until a digital alternative is found.
Check with your alarm provider to explore ATA as an option.
What happens during a power cut?
If you’re using a digital phone line, your alarm may stop working during a power cut unless it has battery backup.
- Analogue alarms: Often continue working if the phone line stays live.
- Digital alarms: Should have battery backup, but not all do. Check with your provider.
Some modern telecare base units also use mobile networks or their own wireless signal to stay connected when broadband fails.
Will my alarm work with my broadband provider?
Here’s what you need to know depending on which provider you use:
BT
If your alarm is compatible, plug it into the 'Phone' socket on the BT Hub. Remove any white filter box and test the alarm system after switching.
TalkTalk
TalkTalk recommends avoiding a fibre upgrade until you're sure your alarm will work. They’re still testing compatibility across different systems.
Sky
Sky users can plug compatible alarms directly into the back of the Sky Hub using the phone port. Always test after setup.
Virgin Media
Move the alarm connection to the ‘Tel 1’ socket on the Virgin Media Hub and test it. Remove any white filter boxes if present.
This page on the Virgin Media website has relevant contact details should you need more information.
Vodafone
Vodafone uses the BT Openreach infrastructure, so set-up is similar. You may need to speak to customer support for alarm-specific advice.
If you have questions, we recommend calling Vodafone Customer Care on 0333 3040191.
FAQs
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How do I test my alarm after switching?
Press the emergency button and wait for a connection. Explain that you’re performing a test. It’s a good idea to test the alarm any time your broadband or phone service changes.
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Can I keep using my wall socket for the alarm?
No. Once the switchover happens, you’ll need to plug the alarm into your broadband router’s phone port. Your analogue phone line will no longer work.
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Will my Lifeline alarm still work if I change broadband provider?
Yes - but only if the alarm system is compatible with the new provider’s digital voice setup. Always check first and test after connecting.
Final thoughts
If you’re unsure whether your digital phone line and alarm system will work together, don’t leave it to chance. Contact your alarm provider and broadband supplier before making any changes. Always test the system after setup, and consider a digital upgrade if you’re still using an analogue alarm.