Behind the scenes at Telecare

Members of our Supported Housing Forum went to the City Telecare Centre to find out.

The visit, which was organised by the Tenant Engagement Team, was a chance for the tenants to enjoy a behind-the-scenes look around the Telecare control room, meet staff and provide useful feedback from their own experiences of using the service.

Telecare customers can easily call for help in an instant any time day or night, by pulling an emergency cord or pressing a button on a neck or wrist pendant. This instantly connects the user to an operator who can contact a key holder or family member, and if needed dispatch the emergency services or the Telecare response team. It is a vital service that enables older and vulnerable people to live independently at home, safe in the knowledge that help is on hand 24/7.

One of the supported housing tenants who took part in the visit to the City Telecare Centre, Brenda, was interested to see the service in action. Brenda said “It was great to see how the phone system works and meet everyone who works there. We found out about plans to update the service and were shown new equipment that is currently being tested such as a fall detector that automatically alerts the control room if you have a fall.”

Another tenant, Ray, told us: They [the control room staff] perform such vital work on our behalf and provide important reassurance to tenants in supported housing. They really are the fourth emergency service!”

City Telecare Services Manager Carol Kendall, who helped to host the event, said:

“We were pleased to welcome the tenants to hear about their experiences and show them the range of equipment available to assist people to continue to live independently. The tenants were very supportive of the work we do and gave the team a round of applause which was a lovely gesture.”

All our supported housing schemes and our accommodation for people aged over 50 have an alarm which is linked to the Telecare control room. The service is also available for people living in private homes. If you think you or someone you know would benefit from the Telecare service please check online or get in touch for details.