This emergency care alarm service allows people to get help when they are in difficulty, helping people to remain safe, secure and independent in and around their homes.

A portable alarm button, which can be worn in six different ways and a unit with a powerful speaker and microphone are installed. This can work via a telephone landline or by using mobile phone technology. When the alarm button is pressed, a call is put through to a control centre, which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and appropriate help is organised.

The service is unique in Sheffield, as it provides mobile support workers who can respond in case of care emergencies. This can help to reduce stress on family and carers. The staff are all professionally trained and well equipped. They can provide emergency care support and can safely help people up off the floor, who may have fallen, by using portable lifting equipment.

The service is available to anyone 18 or over, living in Sheffield, who feels they could benefit from the security it provides. This can include older people, people who have recently left hospital, people with disabilities or medical conditions, people who are living alone or are subject to harassment.

Additional alarms can also be added which automatically monitor situations and raise an alarm if appropriate. These include:

• escaping smoke, gas or carbon monoxide,
• overflowing baths or sinks,
• fire risks, e.g. from leaving pans unattended,
• whether someone not returned to bed within a set time as they may have fallen,
• if someone needs a reminder to take their medication,
• if someone has wandered out of their property at an inappropriate time.

The current charge for the service and the additional alarms can be obtained by contacting the City Wide Care Alarms office or by clicking on the web link below

Qualification & Quality Standards

City Wide Care Alarms is registered and inspected by the Care Quality Commission to ensure they provide a quality service. All managers and staff are DBS (formerly CRB) checked and are qualified to at least NVQ level and over. All staff attend induction training and regular team meetings.
A training plan is agreed each year covering all aspects of health and social care such as Moving and Handling, Health and Safety and Safeguarding. Holds Public Liability and Employers' Liability insurance.