Uswitch comments on the news that BT has delayed its timetable to move all customers onto a new digital network following concerns about vulnerable customers who rely on landline-based personal alarms.

Ernest Doku, telecoms expert at Uswitch.com, comments: “This move to digital broadband connected lines will deliver speeds as high as 10 times faster than current technologies - but it’s entirely apparent that the roll-out shouldn’t be at the expense of the needs of vulnerable customers. 

“Personal care alarm systems and other devices connected to landlines need to be considered during the shift to digital. Providers have a responsibility to look after their customers, and must either provide them with time to migrate to other solutions or offer alternative options to allow them access to emergency services directly. 

“Customers may also be able to explore other full fibre providers in their area, though should seek professional help to ensure that any personal care alarm systems which are linked to their landline are compatible with their new supplier if they change provider. 

“This is a complex UK-wide engineering project with technical challenges to overcome, and BT’s revisions act as a strong reminder that the landline is used for more than just calls, and access to it mustn’t be overlooked.”

Chris Thomas

PR Contractor

v-chris.thomas@rvu.co.uk

About Uswitch 

Uswitch is one of the UK’s top comparison websites for home services switching, including energy, broadband and mobiles. 

More people go to Uswitch to switch their energy, broadband and mobile than any other site, and we have saved consumers over £2.7 billion off their bills since we launched in September 2000.

Free mobile app Utrack also helps households manage their home energy usage and make potential savings. 

Uswitch is part of RVU, a group of online brands with a mission to empower consumers to make more confident home services, insurance and financial decisions.