Community Alarm Service

Charter is the largest provider of community alarms for older and disabled people in Cherwell District.  The service was established in 1988 and we currently have 900 customers.

What is the Caring Link Alarm Service?

It is a monitored service designed to give people of all age groups reassurance that they can call for help at any time, for example if they fall, have a medical emergency or if they are suffering from domestic violence or harassment.

Emergency calls are made using a small trigger worn as a pendant.  This activates an alarm unit installed in your home and automatically places a call to a control centre which is staffed 24 hours a day.  The call will be received by a trained operator who will be able to identify you even if you are unable to speak to them.  The operator will then contact the relevant emergency service or a person you have nominated.

The pendant can be worn either on a neck cord or a wrist band.  It will work from any room in the house and also in the garden.  It can even be worn in the shower.   

What Does the Alarm Unit Look Like?

The unit is designed to sit alongside your existing phone (see picture).

Is the Alarm Easy to Install?

Yes, but you will need to make sure that you have the following:

•  A telephone line with a modern jack plug socket
   
•  A power point within 2 metres of the telephone socket

You will also need to let us have details of three people who can be contacted on your behalf in an emergency.

How Much Does It Cost?

We are a non profit making organisation and we try to keep the cost of the service as low as possible.  The current charge for the service is £3.00 per week, payable in advance preferably by monthly direct debit.  There is a minimum charging period of 4 months (i.e. £52) to cover installation costs and 4 weeks notice of termination is required.

The charge will be reviewed again in March 2009.

Contact Ros Salmons by phone on 0845 009 2427 or e-mail her.