British Red Cross
Ceredigion County Council

Ceredigion Carer's Emergency Card Support Service

For people who look after adults or children who have serious illness or disability.

Do you worry about what would happen to the person you look after if you were suddenly taken ill or had an accident?
If the answer is “YES” then the Carer Emergency Card Support Service is the service for you.

What is the Carer’s Emergency Card?
It is a credit sized card that you, the carer, carry with you at all times. It is used as an instant source of identification in case of accident or sudden illness. The British Red Cross will hold your registration number and details where help can be coordinated to assist you both, while you are receiving attention. By making a brief phone call help can be summoned for the person you look after.

Why was the service developed?
It was requested by Ceredigion carers who were concerned about what would happen if they were out alone and had an accident or suddenly became ill. They wanted a service that would give them peace of mind and access to 24 hour, 7 days a week assistance. They also wanted a service that ensured maximum security for the people they were looking after.

How does the service operate?
You register with the service by completing an enrolment form. This form holds information about you, the person you look after and the action that needs to be taken in the event of an emergency. The British Red Cross, who run the service, hold this information. You are then issued with a clip-on laminated card.

Is it a safe service?
The service is confidential. No personal details are held on the card, so that all identities are protected. The only means of identification is the serial number on the card. In an emergency the British Red Cross respond by carrying out the instructions on the enrolment form.

What are the benefits to Carers?
Carers are offered 24 hours a day emergency cover.
Carers feel less anxious and more free to go out.
Carers have peace of mind if something happens to stop them getting home.

Is there a charge?
No, the service is free to the carer.

How do I join the service?
You can join the service by completing an enrolment form, which can be obtained from:

British Red Cross

Telephone: 01239 615686
Telephone: 01874 610462
Telephone: 01970 635392
Telephone: 01686 626663

Or by writing to:

Carer's Emergency Card Support Service
British Red Cross
Ladywell Centre
Newtown
Powys
SY16 1AF

The service is managed by Mid Wales Red Cross but administered by South Wales Red Cross who operate a similar service.

The British Red Cross will receive funding for the service from Social Services, Ceredigion County Council.

What next?
Return your completed form in the freepost envelope to the British Red Cross. On receipt of your completed form, the Red Cross will register you with the service, issue you with a card and return to you a copy of your enrolment form.

How do I use the Card?
Always carry the card with you. It is important that this identification is found quickly. If possible clip it to your coat, wallet or handbag. It needs to be one of the first things that anyone who comes to your assistance sees or finds.

This service is supported by Ceredigion Carer's Alliance and Ceredigion Social Services.

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