Council offers free support at the touch of a button

Older people who want to stay independent and still have peace of mind are being urged to take advantage of a free trial of the Rochdale Borough Council’s careline service.

Careline is a scheme which sees older or vulnerable people wear a pendant around their neck or wrist which they can press for immediate help if they have a fall or other emergency.

The nifty device connects them to an operator 24 hours a day who will contact a friend, relative or other nominated person on their behalf or call the emergency services.

The careline normally costs between £3.38 and £5.96 a week, but residents can take advantage of a free 4 week trial which is currently running until the end of October.  In some cases, users may qualify for the service for free at the end of the trial period.

And one resident who would definitely recommend the careline is 81-year-old Thelma Ballon, of Middleton.

Mrs Ballon, who has been using the careline for just over a year, said: “It’s a real comfort having the careline. Although I’ve been lucky enough not to have to use it, it’s really important to me that it’s there if I need it. It gives me peace of mind and is a comfort.

“Best of all, on my last Birthday, the careline staff phoned to wish me Happy Birthday. I was really surprised and touched. It meant a lot to get the call.”

Jean Hornby, Cabinet member for Adult Services at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Careline is a great resource because it allows people to keep their independence and stay in familiar surroundings while at the same time giving them support and reassurance.

“Around1300 people in our borough already use careline, but we believe there are many more people who could benefit from this service. This free trial gives them the opportunity to try it for themselves.”

Anyone who would like to find out more about the careline can call 01706 926 671 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday or email careline@rochdale.gov.uk.