Imagine a nurse finishing a late-night round. Instead of walking back to the nurse station to call a GP, she pulls a DECT handset from her pocket, dials instantly, and connects with crystal clarity. Moments later, the care home manager joins the same conversation from a mobile app while offsite. This is the power of cloud-based VoIP in care homes: one number, multiple devices, and no missed messages.
As the UK prepares for the 2027 switch-off of traditional phone lines, care homes that embrace VoIP now are setting themselves up for smoother operations, safer communication, and happier residents.
Key takeaways
- VoIP systems let managers and staff answer calls across desk phones, DECT handsets, mobiles, and laptops without juggling numbers.
- Multi-device access improves responsiveness to residents, families, and healthcare professionals.
- A single cloud platform simplifies installation, training, and ongoing support while reducing costs.
Understanding VoIP in a care home setting
VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, routes calls over broadband instead of copper lines. Each device connected to the cloud platform can use the same extension or number. This means a receptionist at the front desk, a carer on a cordless DECT phone, and a manager using a smartphone app all operate as part of one system. For care homes, this removes the silos that older PBX or analogue systems create and ensures better communication coverage across every corner of the building.
How multi-device access transforms daily care
When a GP calls, a VoIP system can ring multiple devices at once. A nurse may pick up on a cordless handset while the manager sees the call appear on their mobile. This flexibility reduces missed calls and ensures urgent matters are dealt with quickly.
- Desk phones remain reliable at reception and nurse stations.
- DECT handsets give carers mobility with secure, low-latency voice.
- Smartphone apps extend access for managers or offsite staff.
- Laptops and tablets allow video consultations with families or health professionals.
circle.cloud, for example, offers hosted VoIP tailored to care environments, with features like call routing, hunt groups, and voicemail to email to keep communication flowing smoothly.
Quick view: device roles in a care home
| Device type | Typical user | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Desk phone | Reception & nurse stations | Always-on, easy for agency staff |
| DECT handset | Carers on rounds | Reliable roaming, long battery |
| Mobile app | Managers, offsite staff | Remote access, same number |
| Laptop/tablet | Clinicians & families | Video calls, record updates |
Overcoming challenges and misconceptions
Some managers worry that VoIP relies too heavily on broadband. The truth is that with business-grade fibre and QoS in place, call quality is consistently excellent. Ofcom reports that full-fibre now covers over 74% of UK premises, giving most care homes access to robust connectivity.
Another concern is power cuts. While copper lines worked without power, VoIP requires backup. Providers are expected to ensure at least one hour of resilience for 999 calls, and homes can add UPS systems for longer cover.
Finally, some assume that training will be difficult. In practice, cloud systems are intuitive. Staff only need to learn how to answer, transfer, and escalate calls. With clear quick-start guides and short sessions, adoption is fast.
The wider impact and future of VoIP in care
The benefits of multi-device VoIP extend beyond convenience. Clearer and faster communication improves safety by reducing delays in emergencies. As care homes adopt Digital Social Care Records, the same broadband infrastructure will also support secure data and video. Government data shows uptake of digital records in care homes is climbing, meaning strong networks and VoIP will become even more central.
Looking ahead, integration with telehealth services and smart monitoring will only deepen the need for seamless, multi-device access. A resident’s wellbeing often depends on quick, reliable conversations between carers, families, and clinicians. VoIP provides the backbone for that.
FAQs: VoIP and multi-device access in care homes
Can one phone number ring multiple devices? Yes, VoIP lets one number ring across desk phones, mobiles, and laptops simultaneously.
Is VoIP call quality good enough for emergencies? With stable broadband and QoS, VoIP delivers reliable, clear calls that meet industry standards.
Do we need new devices? Many homes mix new IP desk phones, DECT over IP, and mobile apps, depending on staff roles.
Will VoIP still work during a power cut? Yes, with backup power. Providers are expected to support at least an hour of 999 access, and additional UPS systems extend this.
How does this support remote managers? Apps allow managers to join calls or review voicemails offsite using the same number, no matter where they are.
Conclusion
Care homes need reliable, flexible communication to meet the daily challenges of resident care. VoIP delivers exactly that by letting managers and staff use the same phone system across multiple devices. It improves response times, reduces missed calls, and creates a seamless experience for families and clinicians. With the PSTN switch-off approaching, upgrading now ensures care homes stay ahead of the curve and better serve their communities.
Reach out to us
Are you exploring VoIP options for your care home? Share the biggest challenge you face with your current phones, and we will help map out a practical upgrade. Learn more about solutions designed for care providers here: https://circle.cloud/care-homes-phone-system/