The Digital Switchover will have far reaching implications for almhouses and any other housing provider with hard wired or warden call systems. These traditional schemes, which in most cases have been in place for decades, will need upgrading or replacing if they are to be fit for purpose when the analogue signals are switched off. While the implications are significant it really is a great opportunity to reimagine how services to higher needs residents can be delivered.
Alertacall held a webinar on October 18th at 10am to help explain the switchover and what it might mean for your charity. This session will explore the art of the possible, from what additional features can be provided, to whether there needs to be a hard-wired system at all. This change is coming at a time when there are multiple other considerations, and the best solutions will be able to address more than one need, including:
- Addressing the requirements of the Social Housing White Paper, such as improving two-way communication
- Relieving digital poverty and increasing digital engagement
- Enabling operational efficiencies
- Improving the living environment, including giving a less ‘institutionalised’ feel in supported housing schemes
- Improving outcomes for health and care providers
The session explained the implications of Digital Switchover and explored how different providers are approaching the change. Whilst any solution needs to work for the housing provider, one of the most critical components is the customer buy in. Do residents see the ‘WIIFM’ (‘What’s In It For Me’)? Recent innovations offer the chance of a quantum leap in service delivery that will significantly enhance service levels and offers the potential to affordably enhance the image of the charity amongst its residents.
The speakers for the session were Petra van der Zande, Head of Business Improvement at Hull Churches Housing Association, and Martin Cutbill, Director at Alertacall Ltd, who provide alternatives to hard wired alarm systems and work with almost 60 housing providers across the UK.
posted 10 October 22