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Forest Linkline is a 24 hour emergency monitoring and contact service run by the Forest of Dean District Council. It gives peace of mind to older or vulnerable people and those with disabilities, who know that in the event of illness, a fall or an emergency at home, help is just a telephone call away.

Each user receives an alarm unit that uses a telephone line to create a direct link to Forest Linkline. Users can contact the Linkline service at any time by simply pressing the large red button on either the alarm unit or the personal pendant. The pendant can be clipped on to clothing, worn on a cord around the neck, or attached to a wrist strap. Pressing the alarm call unit or the personal pendant will automatically identify the user to a Linkline operator. Even if they are unable to speak, the operator can speak to, and hear them, and will provide help and advice. The operator will also contact the emergency services or other people nominated to help.

There is now an even greater level of support available through Telecare, a series of sensors and detectors that work with the Linkline system. These include a Bogus Caller Button, Exit Alert (particularly useful if the user suffers from dementia), Fall Detector, Pressure Mat (automatically switches on lights at night), and a Gas/carbon monoxide detector, along with several other equally useful facilities.

The aim of Telecare is to reduce the need for residential or nursing care, as well as reducing the burden on carers. It can also be a useful tool in supporting people recently discharged from hospital, and enable frail or disabled people to continue living in their own home.

For more information about Linkline or Telecare, please contact Deb Hughes or Trevor Avery on 01594 812504/505