Over 300 older people in Co Wicklow have received a personal alarm since 2015, Minister Harris is asking community groups to get the message out that more are available.
Earlier this week, government allocated €2.3 million for the renewed Seniors Alert Scheme, which comes into effect on November 1st.
“I am delighted to announce that this scheme will be extended to even more people locally thanks to a new range of measures. From this year on, you no longer have to be living alone in order to qualify for the scheme.
“This measure exists with the support of local voluntary groups and if users feel in danger or require immediate assistance they can activate the device which will alert designated members of their community who can then assist them.
“I strongly encourage anyone who is eligible to avail of the scheme. The community groups that are supporting its delivery are providing a valuable service and deserve great credit.”
Minister Harris explained how the system works:
“All users have a base unit installed in their home which is connected to a national Seniors Alert Scheme helpline using landline or mobile. When the user activates the personalised alarm, it puts a call through to the national call centre which is open 24/7/365. Alarms be worn as a pendant or around the wrist like a watch.”
“The call centre operator talks to the person in their home and decides whether to alert a local volunteer responder or, in potentially serious circumstances, the emergency services.
“I hope the renewed scheme will help even more people enjoy a greater sense of security and peace of mind in their own homes.
“Other new elements of the scheme include free monitoring of the alarm service for the first year and a boost to administrative payments to community groups involved in rolling out the scheme.”
Minister Harris said:
“The Senior Alerts Scheme is really great scheme for our older residents in Co Wicklow and I think it could be of benefit to many more people. If anyone has any questions about the scheme, please do contact me.”
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People can’t apply as individuals they have to apply through an approved organisation so the easiest way to tell them is as follows :-
Minister Harris added
“You can find out more about signing up for this scheme on www.pobal.ie or contacting my office.” simon.harris@oireachtas.ie
