Digital Warden Call System Upgrade Across Sheltered Housing Schemes

In 2019, Waltham Forest Council partnered with Aston Group to modernise the emergency alarm systems across 14 sheltered housing schemes ahead of the nationwide switch-off of analogue telephone lines. The existing pull-cord alarms were decades old, reliant on copper infrastructure and limited to one call at a time per scheme, creating operational risk and service constraints.

The analogue systems were also closed and difficult to maintain, requiring specialist third-party intervention and exposing entire schemes to disruption from single-line faults. At the same time, resident expectations had evolved, with independent living schemes accommodating a wider demographic seeking more discreet, modern solutions.

Waltham Forest required a reliable, compliant and futureproof digital warden call system that could integrate sensitively into residents’ homes while supporting independent living.

The Challenge

Delivering the upgrade across 431 occupied flats required replacing legacy devices and installing new digital equipment without interrupting emergency cover. Many sites lacked suitable data infrastructure, requiring new cabling and connectivity solutions, while multiple telecom environments introduced compatibility challenges.

The new system also required dual communication paths to ensure alarms could transmit even if connectivity failed, increasing installation complexity. Programme pressures intensified when telecom providers accelerated analogue line closures, requiring the remaining schemes to be delivered within a shortened timeframe.

Resident engagement was equally critical. Some residents were initially hesitant about replacing familiar equipment, and access challenges had to be managed sensitively in partnership with the council to maintain full system coverage and safety assurance.

The Solution

Aston Group delivered a phased rollout of a digital warden call platform, beginning with a pilot installation to validate the approach before full deployment. Modern in-flat touchscreen units and wireless personal pendants replaced the legacy pull-cord alarms, enabling residents to call for help from anywhere in their home with immediate connection.

Smart smoke and heat detectors were integrated into the system, automatically alerting the 24/7 monitoring centre and triggering hands-free communication with residents. The platform supports simultaneous alarms across all schemes, removing previous capacity constraints.

Resident engagement and staff training were embedded throughout delivery. Familiar Aston Group engineers supported installations, while Independent Living Officers were trained to use a secure mobile app enabling remote monitoring and response across multiple sites.

The open-protocol digital system also allows Aston Group to maintain and reconfigure devices directly, improving fault resolution and reducing reliance on specialist suppliers. Remote monitoring capability enables proactive maintenance and long-term reliability.

The Results

By the end of 2025, 12 of the 14 schemes were fully operational, with the remaining sites completed in early 2026. The accelerated programme was delivered without loss of emergency cover, ensuring continuous protection for residents.

The new platform removed call capacity limitations and introduced integrated fire detection, personal pendants and 24/7 monitoring, providing residents and staff with greater reassurance and safety. Discreet devices better align with modern independent living expectations, while remote access tools have improved efficiency for scheme staff.

For Aston Group and the client, remote diagnostics and open-system maintenance have improved service resilience and reduced downtime.

Overall, the upgrade has future-proofed Waltham Forest’s sheltered housing schemes with a modern, reliable digital lifeline that enhances safety, independence and quality of life for residents.