A COUNCIL has launched a telecare system, which is part of a national drive to improve the use of technology to support people keeping their independence while living in their own homes.

Chester-le-Street District Council's Careline service has upgraded its equipment, allowing residents to obtain devices specific to their needs for an emergency response.

Pilots undertaken over the past few years in the county have shown how telecare can help to avoid unnecessary admissions to residential care and hospitals.

It also provides added re-assurance to users and, especially carers, as they can respond as soon as the community alarm is activated.

The Government has funded the development of services which include an alarm unit and pendant, smoke detectors, intruder alerts, carbon monoxide detectors, temperature alerts, key safes and flood and fall detectors.

Lisa Coverdale, control centre manager for the Careline service, said: "We know that the majority of older people would like to remain in their own home for as long as possible and the introduction of Telecare will facilitate this."

Julie Carter, Careline support worker, said: "We all want to live as independently as possible and remain in our own homes for as long as we can and, with the help of telecare, this is becoming more of a reality."

For further information on Careline and Telecare, contact Doris Taylor, dispersed alarm co-ordinator, on 0191-388-7588.