NORTH Herts District Council s (NHDC) Careline, which provides alarm cover for the vulnerable and elderly, has improved its service for people who don t have anyone to help them in an emergency. In an alarm goes off but the client can t speak, and there i

NORTH Herts District Council's (NHDC) Careline, which provides alarm cover for the vulnerable and elderly, has improved its service for people who don't have anyone to help them in an emergency.

In an alarm goes off but the client can't speak, and there is no one nearby who can help, Careline will immediately send a highly-trained security officer to their assistance to see what is wrong and to arrange more help if needed.

The new service will begin on January 1.

The Careline Community Alarms Centre offers a comprehensive 24-hour emergency service for vulnerable people of all ages across the country. A major part of its role is monitoring community alarms used by people in their own homes.

Cllr Bernard Lovewell, NHDC portfolio holder for housing, said: "People are living longer and many like to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, often alone. Families tend to move away and friends are not always on hand to help in an emergency.

"Our new service gives them reassurance that if emergency help is needed, Careline will respond at once. It means peace of mind for everyone.