Emergency alarms

A 24 hour emergency monitoring system can help older and vulnerable people to remain living independently and safely in their own homes. It can be used for people who have a medical condition and can offer security and peace of mind.

A pendant is worn either around the neck or as a wrist band and you can call for help simply by pressing a button. This sends an alarm automatically to the control centre where staff can arrange for you to get the help you need as soon as possible.

To have an emergency alarm you will need to have a telephone landline and a nearby electrical socket. The unit has an in-built microphone and a powerful loud speaker so that you can be heard from a distance. Once you have pressed your emergency button, your personal code is instantly recognised by the control centre's computer and a two-way speech link is set up with the centre. The service is operational within your home and garden up to a range of about 50 yards. Emergencies are responded to within minutes by arranging help from a relative or friend, your GP and emergency services.

     Emergency Alarm Community Service

Starting Point, run by the local Age UK and funded by Wigan Council, should be your first point of contact for this type of service and they will be able to explain the choice of service providers available. If you are on a means tested benefit, you may qualify for this service to be provided free of charge but Starting Point will be able to advise you in the first instance.

Aid Call is a similar service offered by Age UK. You will be asked to select two or more key holders living at separate addresses, which you can rely on to help you in an emergency. When the alarm button is pressed the response centre will contact your chosen key holders and if for any reason they are unable to contact your key holders, they will contact emergency services if appropriate. There is also a charge for this, depending on what service you have.

Useful contacts

Age UK Wigan Borough (Starting Point)
Address: Age UK, Pennyhurst Mill, Haig Street, Wigan, WN3 4AZ
Phone: 01942 826079 or 01942 825594
Fax: 01942 494128
Web: www.ageukwiganborough.org.uk
Email: startingpoint@ageukwiganborough.org.uk