Bexley Emergency Link Line (BELL)
BELL offers security and help to people at the touch of a button. BELL uses technology to monitor and respond to a person's well being and summons help if required.
We provide a 24 hour, 365 days a year service, enabling you to live as independently as possible in your own home.
Small discreet pendant which allows the user to raise an alarm call in an emergency
Who is BELL for?
BELL is for anyone who needs it, eg those living alone, older people, those with physical or learning disabilities or issues with their mental health.
How does BELL work?
BELL install a Link Line box in your home. This is plugged into a modern telephone socket and nearby power point. It operates on your telephone landline and is linked to the BELL computer system which holds all your information. By pressing the pendant supplied or button on the alarm box you will automatically dial BELL. You will then be connected to a monitoring officer who will have all your details in front of them. You can talk to us from anywhere within your home via your alarm box and can let us know what assistance you need.
The supportive professional staff will work out with you what help you need, not just for emergencies, but for a variety of things, which may include phoning a nominated contact on your behalf. We can also arrange for medical assistance, despatch a BELL response worker or contact the emergency services if required.
Once you sign up to BELL, all equipment is installed for you. When we install your equipment we will demonstrate how to operate it and will show you how to make monthly test calls.
How much does BELL cost?
There are two levels of service:
Gold Service
This provides an installation, maintenance, full monitoring and response service. If your designated contacts are not available, we will send one of our officers if necessary. The cost of the Gold service is £4.80 per week.
Silver Service
This is an installation, maintenance and monitoring service and we will contact the people who support you if there is a problem. The cost is £3.80 per week.
If at any time none of your emergency contacts are available to assist and it is necessary for our response officer to visit you (other than for a technical problem) a call-out charge of £70 will be made on each occasion. If possible we will discuss this with you at the time.
You can pay for BELL either by a monthly direct debit or by a quarterly invoice sent to you. If you are on a low income you may be eligible for financial support following a financial assessment.
Charges for BELL are subject to the Council's annual review of all fees and charges.
How do I apply for BELL?
You can apply for the BELL service using the online application form link on the right. To request a printed application form, or find out more about the service please contact Bexley's Emergency Services Team using the contact details on the right.
