Advice has been issued to Homeline users and their families to prevent them from getting cut off as phone companies prepare to switch over all analogue landlines to digital ones by 2027.

It is understood that over 3,000 vulnerable Swindon residents depend on Homeline to access round-the-clock assistance, should they need it. 

But as companies like BT, EE and Virgin Media start moving to fibre-technology in what has been called a 'digital switchover' there is a possibility that some Homeline users may see their service temporarily cut off. 

However, Swindon Borough Council has reassured users that it is working with the phoneline companies to prevent this from happening - after the Government asked for this to be done. 

A spokesperson for the council said: "The Council has signed data sharing agreements with BT, EE and Virgin Media to allow them to identify which of their customers in Swindon use Homeline.

"This should help them avoid inadvertently deactivating the Homeline service for existing customers when their engineers complete the landline upgrade.

"BT is encouraging any vulnerable customers who have any concerns to call them on 0330 1234 150."

Advice for Homeline users 

If you, or someone you know, is a Homeline user but not a BT, EE or Virgin Media customer, please

•    Inform your phone landline provider that you have a telecare device as soon as they contact you about the digital switchover. 
•    Call the council on 01793 464430 or 01793 616427 once you know when your landline upgrade is due to take place. We can then ensure your device continues to function correctly.
•    Regularly test your Homeline device by pressing the button on your pendant. This should connect you through to the Homeline team, who are expecting these calls. 

BT is hosting a drop-in event in Swindon between 10am and 2pm on September 11 at Central Library for Homeline users and their families to raise any questions or concerns about the digital switchover.

The Homeline system is a pendant alarm service that provides an easily accessible safety net for older and vulnerable members of the community should they need it at times of emergency - with members of staff on hand to attend if the alarm is activated. 

Earlier this year, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue recognised two Swindon Borough Council employees for saving a Homeline user's life when they activated their pendant alarm after a fall that caused a house fire.