Stuart Anderson MP has encouraged residents in South Shropshire to prepare for the digital switchover, a significant change that will impact the way people communicate and access essential services.
The digital switchover refers to the replacement of traditional landline phone systems with digital technology. This change promises to deliver a modern network that is secure, efficient and fit for the future, with better quality phone calls.
The deadline for the telecommunications industry-led public switched telephone network (PSTN) switch-off approaches in December 2025. Telecare devices will be fully phased out and users of telecare will have a fully digital alarm device.
As part of his ongoing efforts to support local communities, Stuart has raised the need to ensure that everyone is equipped with the skills to navigate the transition smoothly.
Stuart has said that some residents, particularly in rural areas with limited digital connectivity, may face challenges adopting to this new technology.
He has added that the digital switchover threatens to leave residents in rural areas without access to television if they do not have superfast broadband.
Stuart has urged the government to ramp up the roll out of super fast broadband in rural areas if they are not to become digitally excluded in the next decade.
It follows research conducted by Age UK on digital exclusion in the UK. It found that 25 per cent of people aged 65 and over in the UK don't use the internet.
This accounts for some 2.4 million older people. In the West Midlands, 21% of older people – equivalent to 240,000 people – use the internet less than once a month or not at all.
The research adds that older people who are without digital skills risk losing access to key services such as banking, shopping and health services, as well as communications platforms that keep people connected.
Age UK's research found that, in England, the three most common reasons for people aged 65 and over not using the internet were a lack of skills; a lack of trust in the internet; and a lack of access to good enough equipment and/or broadband access.
Age UK is running a 'Digital Champions Programme' which seeks to provide support for older people to improve their digital skills through trained volunteers, as well as providing loan technology for those without access.
Further information can be found here.
Stuart Anderson MP said:
"The digital switchover is a significant change which promises to deliver better quality phone calls. However, it is vital that everyone is equipped with the skills to navigate the transition smoothly. In the West Midlands, 21% of older people – equivalent to 240,000 people – use the internet less than once a month or not at all. I have urged the government to tackle digital exclusion in South Shropshire, and ensure everyone has access to reliable internet connections. I also welcome the support being provided by organisations such as Age UK, which is offering a range of services via its Digital Champions Programme."
