Emergency contact numbers

Have a list of emergency contact numbers to hand when you are at home, or out and about.

Numbers you should have include:

• your parent or carer
• a neighbour or someone living close by
• your Support Worker (if you have one)
• NHS non-emergency - 111 (if you're ill and need medical advice)
• Ambulance, police and Fire service emergency number - 999
• Police non-emergency - 101
• your doctor

Services

Safe and Independent Living (SAIL)

SAIL can support you in staying safe and living independently. Available support includes:

• advice and information
• equipment
• home safety checks
• information about local social activities

Find out more about SAIL.

Data Link Emergency Information Pots

Data Link is a scheme for anyone who might be reassured to know that essential information would be readily available to the Emergency Services, should they suffer an accident or sudden illness.

The scheme ensures that vital information is available not only to identify you, but also to advise of relevant illnesses, allergies, medication and contact addresses.

Although this is not a Local AuthorityLocal AuthoritySometimes known as the council, a local authority is an organisation that is officially responsible for public services and facilities in a particular area. commissioned service, people can contact the supplier direct.

Fire Safety Visits

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service offer Safe and Well visits. This is where they visit your home for free to help you make your home safer.

They can fit free smoke alarms, and give you safety advice. This includes topics like cooking safely and what to do if there is a fire.

There are many way to help you stay safe in your home. Some of these you can carry out yourself, such as:

• planning an escape route for your home

• keeping door ways clear to prevent falls

• switching off appliances at the wall when not in use

• not leaving the cooker unattended

Visit for more tips on making your home safe.

Telecare

Telecare systems raise an alarm when you are in danger. Telecare works through a careline connected to your phone. The careline can get alerted by pressing an emergency button, or by sensors in the home which detect a range of problems.

The careline can go through to a:

• parent/carer

• relative

• neighbour

If they do not respond a 24 hour monitoring and response centre will pick up the call and help you. There are a range of Telecare systems to cater for different needs and to detect different issues.

These include:

• raising an alarm if you fall over

• if you have left the bath running

• if you haven't got out of bed in the morning

• reminding you to take tablets

See what a Telecare system could to to support your needs or visit an Independent Living Centre to view the systems and get advice.

How can I get Telecare?

You may be able to get support through the council to buy, install and maintain the equipment. This will depend on your needs and finances. See if you are eligible for support.

If you get continuing healthcare funding, you may be able to get Telecare as part of your package.

If you are not eligible for support you can buy telecare through an organisation.

More information

Visit the Disability Living Foundation for information on independent living and equipment.