How to get help in an emergency?

If you don't know your neighbours, as is common in the UK now, you might advertise or try to find locally someone who might come in for a modest sum. A friend in her 90s has done this for some time.
It difficult being on your own, I hope someone has a better solution than me.

Local churches can often put you in touch with people that can help. Worth a try!

Do ask at your doctors surgery. In our area there are community nurses who will pop in. They were absolutely brilliant when my Mum was old.

If you use FB try your local group. Maybe a student would be grateful for a bit of extra cash.

Sorry - just thought. A local care agency might be able to supply someone.

Some Counties run a volunteer scheme so best to contact your local ASC

You could approach Age UK or a private agency to employ someone to help with shopping, etc - unless you get it delivered as a lot of GNs do.

There’s always 111 as a port of call if you think you don’t warrant an ambulance call out, but need advice.

I appreciate your replies. The other problem would be nobody would have a key to let themselves in because I only need someone when I am bedfast.
As I have no idea as to when this will happen again it's a difficulty.

Madwoman11

I appreciate your replies. The other problem would be nobody would have a key to let themselves in because I only need someone when I am bedfast.
As I have no idea as to when this will happen again it's a difficulty.

You need a key safe on a hidden part of the outside of the house. Then you can give the number to trusted visitors/ helpers who will be able to obtain the key and let themselves in.

The other problem would be nobody would have a key to let themselves in because I only need someone when I am bedfast.

The only way round that is to have a keysafe fitted outside.
A good reason to go through a recognised body to organise proper help, rather than just anyone.

Crossed posts 25Avalon!

Age Concern will install a key safe for you and may be able to advise about sources of help.

Are key safes actually safe ? I read somewhere that they are easily accessed

My understanding is there are police approved key safes. Age U.K. would advise I’m sure.

Thank you

Age UK may be able to address specific concerns, too.

There was a user on here with pneumonia a few days ago, who was totally without help, and it was a real worry, and just terrible because she wanted someone to just look after her for a day or two, and to have some soup, bless her.

There really needs to be some sort of system in place, I think.

I have a keypad on my back door. It can be double locked if necessary but quite a few friends have the code.

Most care agencies will provide emergency cover.

No doubt at a (big) cost, but it might be worth checking them out, just in case.

Why not contact your local council and ask for Older People Social Services. Explain your situation and ask if they can send someone out to do an assessment. They are legally obliged to do this. Even if they cannot provide the help you need they should be able to give you some guidance as to where you can access help. Be careful about advertising privately as you must ensure that you have someone who is CRB checked.

I think your best bet is to talk to AgeUk in the first instance. They will signpost to all the relevant people.

Thank you

Yes I will. Thank you

I don't think it is wise for you to advertise privately , please don't do that . Go through a recognized agency . Social services or the age concern are your safest bet.Good luck.

Yes I would only use trusted and checked people