Accreditation speaks volumes for Careline

Published on 4 August 2011

Epping Forest District Council’s 24-hour Careline Centre based in Loughton has received the Telecare Services Association ‘Code of Practice for Social Alarms Services’ award. The national accreditation was presented by the Chairman of Council Councillor Ken Angold-Stephens at the meeting of the full Council on 26 July 2011.

The Council’s fully-trained Careline Operators provide support for vulnerable people from the centre in Loughton. The alarm unit is linked through the client’s telephone line, with an associated portable pendant which can be worn around the neck or wrist. Help can be summoned from anywhere in their home, or nearby garden area, using a two-way speech unit. Our Careline Centre operator can find out what the problem is and get help if necessary. The Centre holds all the information that may be needed in an emergency - about key holders, doctors, relatives and any medical conditions.

‘TSA’ accreditation confirms to Careline clients and their families that a consistently high-quality service is provided. The Careline service is provided to council tenants, people in privately owned accommodation and to other housing providers – such as housing associations.

Portfolio Holder for Housing Councillor Maggie McEwen said: “I am delighted that the Careline Service has been given this accreditation. It confirms that our Careline Centre provides an excellent service to all of its users, which brings peace of mind to both the service user and their families.”

Careline’s emergency alarm system may be just what you (or a member of your family) needs if you live alone and feel vulnerable, or if you are worried about getting help in an emergency. The Council can provide the service for residents of any home in Epping Forest district, for a very competitive annual rental fee. The property must be connected with a phone line.

Anyone interested in having a Careline alarm fitted should contact Epping Forest Careline on 020 8532 1065 or email careline@eppingforestdc.gov.uk