Peace of mind for a few pounds a week

CHRISTINE EWING faced a daunting future after a relationship break-up left her fending for herself for the first time in years.

The 45-year-old Basingstoke resident – who is totally blind – signed up for a new house with supported specialist landlord Advance Housing & Support, and during the process heard about Sentinel Housing Association’s Telecare service.

“I had been burgled in my previous home, and was nervous about living on my own again,” recalls Chris, “but when I visited the Sentinel Communicare team I could touch and feel the products.”

After a home visit, Sentinel quickly installed a fall detector, flood detector, smoke detector, community alarm pendant, and a bogus call detector. The latter works so if Chris isn’t sure who someone is at the door, she can press the button discretely, and Sentinel staff can listen in to the conversation. If the caller is suspicious, Sentinel can alert the authorities, neighbours or family.

Chris says: “It’s a big relief to know that someone is there to take action if I get into difficulties. I always take the fall detector with me when I go upstairs, and I have flood detectors in the bathroom and by the washing machine. At first, I thought this service was just for old people, but I can’t recommend it enough.”

Sentinel Care and Support Manager Tim Part adds: “Chris has got a vast array of products to give her peace of mind when performing tasks that most of us take for granted. But the service isn’t just about gadgets, it’s about responsive, polite staff who are well-trained to reassure residents that help is there when they need it.”