News

WRISTBAND COULD SAVE A LIFE

A wristband could prove a lifeline for elderly or vulnerable people.

The wristband, which has been introduced by Shepway District Council, carries a unique identity number. The number relates to personal details kept at the council’s Lifeline database.

If anyone wearing the band falls, has an accident or becomes ill, emergency services can quote the unique identity number and Lifeline operators can pass o­n vital details and information about medicine, allergies, and the name and contact details of the client’s doctor.

The wristbands build o­n the council’s 24-hour Lifeline service that offers a radio-triggered pendant alerting Lifeline staff if the wearer falls or needs to summon help.

“The range of these alarms is limited to the home and garden so we wanted to look at a way of providing a similar sort of back up further afield,” said Ed Tingley, Lifeline Service Advisor. “All hospitals and the emergency services in Kent are aware of the wristbands and how they operate.”

The wristbands are available to anyone, whether or not they already use the Lifeline service, and 400 of the 1,000 bands ordered by Shepway are already being use by vulnerable people.

“We think they will be particularly valuable to carers too. If a carer is injured in an accident or suddenly becomes ill, it is vital that this information is relayed back to the person they are caring for and an alternative care plan is arranged.”

Cllr Brian Copping, Cabinet Member for Housing, said the wristbands were an important addition to the LIfelife service. “I am sure they will provide extra peace of mind to vulnerable people and their carers. With Christmas coming up, the wristband would make an excellent gift.”

The wristbands cost £11.75 a year with an initial set-up charge of £11.75. Anyone who would like more information should contact the Lifeline Control Centre o­n 01303 242615.