Milton Keynes City Council’s Care and Response team experienced its busiest ever year in 2022.
The City Council’s Care and Response team, who provide essential help to vulnerable people living independently in Milton Keynes has reported its busiest ever year in 2022.
The team offers advice and reassurance over the phone as well as making hundreds of home visits every month.
As well as contacting family members, the team will use their expert judgement about whether to alert emergency services.
The team of 20 people answered more than 232,000 calls from those in need and assisted 1,678 people who had fallen, helping people to avoid calling 999 during their busiest period.
The team also provides ‘peace of mind’ equipment including alarm units, personal pendants, fall sensors, medication reminders, and bogus caller buttons.
The service has recently upgraded its systems to accommodate all forms of calling, from conventional telephone to digital channels.
Cllr Emily Darlington, Cabinet Member responsible for Adults, Housing and Healthy Communities said:
“This incredible team is helping people live independently for longer and their work is more important than ever as our vital NHS and ambulance services face such immense pressure.
“The amazing relationship they have with residents is not just an emotional lifeline but, on many occasions, they provide immediate help that prevents the need for hospital admission.”
Local people can find out more about the services on offer by calling 01908 222 616 or emailing careandresponse@milton-keynes.gov.uk.