New Digital Alarm System Set to Protect Vulnerable Citizens Across the North-East
A new digital alarm system is being introduced to safeguard vulnerable residents across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray. The move will see over 13,000 telecare users switch from analogue to advanced digital technology, providing greater security and modernising care services.
The initiative is a joint effort involving Aberdeen City Council, Bon Accord Care, and Health and Social Care Partnerships from Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray. By transitioning to a Shared Alarm Receiving Centre (Shared ARC) Platform, the project aims to enhance the quality of care for some of the North-east’s most at-risk citizens.
For years, telecare systems relied on analogue landlines to provide essential support to vulnerable people, such as older adults, people with disabilities, and those living alone. However, as telecommunications providers gradually phase out analogue phone networks, local authorities have been forced to adapt.
This shift is not just about survival, it’s about enhancing care quality and efficiency. Digital systems offer faster connections, better monitoring, and enhanced safety features. They can also integrate with smart technology and use cloud-based systems to ensure data is secure and easily accessible.
Councillor John Cooke, Chair of the Integrated Joint Board, emphasised the importance of this move:
“The introduction of this advanced digital alarm system is a major step forward in protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities while progressing the digitisation of our services.”
The Shared ARC Platform acts as a centralised hub for telecare services. Instead of relying on old copper landlines, it uses cloud technology to manage alarms, emergency responses, and monitoring. This offers a faster, more reliable connection to emergency response teams and care providers.
Key features include:
Quicker response times: Digital connections mean faster alerts and quicker intervention.
24/7 emergency support: Aberdeen’s Emergency Response Team operates 24/7, offering support for “life and limb” services, such as alarm monitoring and lone worker protection.
Remote monitoring: The cloud-based system allows continuous monitoring of care users, with real-time updates on their well-being.
Adaptation to new devices: The system can integrate with smart devices like wearable health trackers or smart home sensors.
The Digital Office for Scottish Local Government and Scotland Excel have played key roles in facilitating this project, ensuring local authorities across Scotland are equipped to handle the digital transformation. Aberdeen is one of just 17 Early Adopters of the system, setting the region apart as a leader in digital care.
For users, the transition from analogue to digital might sound daunting, but support will be available throughout the process. According to the council, users will be notified and guided step-by-step when it’s time to switch. This will ensure there is no break in support for vulnerable individuals.
The goal is to have a fully digital telecare service by the end of 2025, ensuring no one is left behind as the analogue system is phased out. During this period, users will still have access to 24/7 emergency support from the Emergency Response Team, so they are never left without help.
Beyond faster emergency response times, the Shared ARC Platform offers numerous benefits. Steve Roud, Chief Officer for Digital and Technology at Aberdeen City Council, highlighted the potential for increased independence:
“Technology can play a key role in supporting individuals to live independently for longer, and we are committed to driving innovation in this area and exploring new possibilities to help reduce pressure on care services.”
This shift to digital allows for smarter, more person-centred care. Telecare users could, for instance, have devices that monitor for falls, sudden changes in health, or inactivity, all of which trigger automatic alerts to support teams. With cloud technology, updates can be shared instantly, ensuring that emergency response teams always have the most up-to-date information.
The Shared ARC Platform isn’t just about Aberdeen, it’s part of a wider transformation of care across Scotland. The Digital Office for Scottish Local Government is working with local authorities to ensure Scotland’s care infrastructure is future-proofed, resilient, and capable of meeting the needs of an ageing population.
David Brown, from the Digital Office, called it a “significant step forward” in the safety and well-being of citizens who rely on telecare:
“By implementing cloud technology and advanced digital solutions, this collaboration will enhance service delivery and drive innovation both now and in the future.”
This approach reflects the broader goals of Scotland’s Digital Strategy for Health and Care, which aims to modernise health services, reduce strain on care staff, and improve the quality of care for vulnerable people.
Upgrading from analogue to digital telecare is essential, as the old system is being phased out by telecom providers. But beyond being a necessity, it’s an opportunity to deliver better care, faster responses, and more efficient services. The shift will likely reduce the pressure on emergency services by enabling quicker intervention, which could prevent minor issues from escalating into full-blown crises.
While technological change often raises concerns about disruption, Aberdeen’s step-by-step approach should ensure that no vulnerable person is left without support. The rollout plan also aligns with the broader shift toward smart healthcare, where devices, apps, and connected systems offer a more personalised, proactive approach to care.
The switch to the Shared ARC Platform is a clear example of how technology can improve care services. For residents of Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray, it means faster help, better communication, and the reassurance that their telecare system is future-proof.
While change can be unsettling, especially for vulnerable groups, the commitment from Aberdeen City Council, Bon Accord Care, and health partnerships shows a dedication to doing things right. By prioritising user support and maintaining 24/7 emergency response services, this change will likely benefit both users and carers alike.
With a fully digital service expected by 2025, the North-east of Scotland is positioning itself as a leader in smart, person-centred care, a model that other regions will likely follow.
