Care Service to become free!
THURROCK councillors have announced the scrapping of charges for community alarm service – Careline, as well as outlining the important role technology will have in providing better care to residents.
At last night’s Cabinet meeting (Wednesday 5 April), it was explained how technology can support people to live more independently in their own homes.
Charges for the Careline community alarm service will also be abolished as part of the council’s wider prevention strategy.
Cllr James Halden, Portfolio Holder for Education and Health, said: “Helping older people remain in their own home, if they want to be, is vital.
“Investing in this service and making it free is our effort to prevent accidents and hospitalisation. This is key for the tax payer and, of course, for our residents in social care.”
“The tools we use to support residents must be fit for purpose in the 21st century and things such as memory aids, mobile phones and digital apps all offer invaluable ways for people to stay safe and remain independent for longer.”
The ending of Careline charges will help thousands of residents across Thurrock, who currently pay between 93p and £4.95 per week for the service.
Cllr Sue Little, Portfolio Holder for Children’s and Adult Social Care, who spoke after the meeting said: “The current Careline service has helped countless residents in its thirty year history. I am pleased that after years of charging different amounts for the same service, it will now be free to residents, while also improving the service available.
“Our aim is to replace the old fashioned pull-cords with individual alarms that are more reliable and give greater security – these will all be based on an individual’s needs.”
