Northumberland County Council is appealing to residents to gear up for the impending national digital switchover.

The transition will see a shift from the legacy analogue landline system to enhanced digital services.

By December 2025 onwards, devices tied to analogue landlines, ranging from amplified phones for people with hearing impairments to portable healthcare devices, will have undergone this digital upgrade.

The switchover has 'significant implications' for users of telecare services.

Councillor Richard Wearmouth, deputy leader at Northumberland County Council and cabinet member for Corporate Services, said: "The safety of our residents is our top priority and whilst this is being led by our UK telecoms providers the Council has a duty of care to our residents to ensure they have all the information they need to upgrade to digital services.

“This is an ongoing process, and this new network will provide a more reliable and dependable service, but we need to make sure no one is left behind and that our services remain fully operational.

"I would urge anyone using, or if anyone knows of someone using, telecare services to ensure they have the right systems in place."

Telecoms providers are expected to reach out to customers before the switchover.

Residents should be alert to scams, such as third parties posing as product suppliers.