Increase in security cameras across Wexford as older residents express concerns about safety

Simon Bourke

Mon 6 May 2024 at 01:00

As the election campaign heats up and councillors continue on the canvassing trail a number of concerning issues are arising. Among them is the safety of Wexford’s older people in their homes, an issue which Cllr Leonard Kelly says is manifesting itself with the installation of high-end technology across the county.

"A striking part of this election campaign, and a possible sign of the times we are living is the proliferation of doorbell cameras,” he said. “These is a really sense among many people that the wish to feel more safe in their homes. I’ve talked to several older who have real concerns, and one piece of advice I was able to give them was to check out the Seniors Alert Scheme (SAS), which has been established to encourage community support for vulnerable older people.”

The scheme provides funding for a personal monitored alarm, which is connected to a contact centre to enable older persons of 65 or older and of limited means, to continue to live securely in their homes. It is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development via Pobal with equipment made available through community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations registered with Pobal under the SAS.

The installation of the equipment is free and applicants also receive one year’s monitoring free. After the first year a monitoring fee of €60-90 applies.

Interested parties should contact their local community or voluntary group operating the scheme in their area and they will apply on your behalf. You can find the list of registered organisations on Pobal's website. www.pobal.ie