Redbridge Council’s support line for the vulnerable is up and running and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Lifeline, a type of community alarm system, is a support service for people living with special needs, the elderly and the vulnerable and there are no age restrictions.

Each Lifeline user is given a pendant which can be pressed to alert staff at a special centre based in Ilford, who can provide support after a fall or when feeling unwell.

Users can talk to an operator at the centre using a two-way speech function.

People can nominate relatives or friends for the support centre to contact in the event of an emergency.

Support staff can also attend a property themselves, but users must ensure they have a key safe installed outside their home to enable access.

Lifeline services cost £4.45 per week with no installation charge, unless you receive benefits in which case the service is free.

You will need to provide a copy of your benefits application letter for installers to verify.

If you need a key safe fitted outside your home, the council can arrange this at a cost of £104.40.

All Lifeline users must have a telephone line and electric socket for installation to be possible.

Email lifeline@redbridge.gov.uk or call 020 8708 5897 to find out more or complete the online application form for the service here.

You can also text the service on 07800 140749.