Telecare is a service that helps keep you safe at home. It uses sensors and alarms that can call for help 24 hours a day.
Telecare technology is available to support you to stay independent and maintain control of your health and wellbeing needs.
Telecare equipment can be free of charge. If you do not have a landline telephone you will be charged for a sim card (to use with your mobile phone) to support the services that you are assessed for.
Products available
Telecare can provide a range of different items that can support your independence in the community and your own home and includes:
- Personal alarms – you can wear as a pendant, bracelet or keyring that you can can press if support or help is required.
- A falls detector – sensors fitted in your home to monitor movement.
- Embrace watches – to monitor and support with epilepsy with GPS locator.
- Chair and bed sensors – these can be voice activated that can act as reminders.
- Medication boxes – support to remind you to take medication.
A Care Act assessment is completed to ensure we can meet and support you with your eligible needs. This ensures your health and wellbeing is supported at home and in the community.
We work in partnership with Amplius to provide a Telecare personal alarm service to those who need it.
Amplius will install and demonstrate the equipment on our behalf.
Frequently asked questions about Telecare service
What is Telecare?
Why are charges being introduced?
From July 2025, the Council agreed that some people who use the telecare service will need to contribute towards the cost. This helps support the ongoing running and maintenance of the service.
How much do I need to pay?
If you are not financially eligible for support through Adult Services, you will be charged £4 per week per household, it is the same price no matter how many people use the service in your home.
Who does not need to pay?
You will not need to pay if:
- you have an Adult Services care package and are financially eligible, or
- you have your own Telecare service and live with someone else who uses the telecare service who has an Adult Services care package and is financially eligible
When will the payments start?
Payments start on 1 April 2026 and will be collected monthly by Direct Debit in arrears.
Do I need to complete a Direct Debit form?
Yes, if you need to pay, please complete the form included with your letter and send it back using the prepaid envelope.
Cooling‑off period for Direct Debit
You are protected by the Direct Debit Guarantee. You can cancel your Direct Debit at any time, and your bank will refund any incorrect payment immediately.
What happens if I don’t return the Direct Debit form?
If the form is not returned, you may build up debt after charges begin on 1 April 2026.
Sending the form back quickly will stop this. We advise you to let us know as soon as possible if you do not want the telecare service.
How often will the telecare charge be reviewed?
The charge is reviewed every year as part of the Council's Charging Policy.
What if my circumstances change?
If your care needs or financial situation changes, contact Adult Services. If you later become eligible for support, payments will stop and you will be refunded if you have overpaid.
I no longer need the telecare service, what should I do?
Please call 01234 718112 (ext. 47112) between 9am and 3pm so we can collect the equipment.
Does a referral or Direct Debit form count as an assessment?
No. You must ask Adult Services for an assessment. Returning the forms does not count as one.
What if I need the telecare equipment repaired or replaced?
Repairs and replacements are free of charge. Please contact the Telecare Service using the details below.
Need help or have questions?
What people using Telecare have said
“I feel so safe now that I have my alarm in the community when I am going out on my own”.
“The falls detector makes me feel safe as I live on my own”.
“I'm a young person and needed equipment that was age appropriate for me. I am now able to go out and about on my own as my embrace watch has a GPS tracker so supports me and my family”.
Please phone 01234 718128 or email Telecare@bedford.gov.uk and speak a friendly, helpful advisor to discuss your telecare needs and what would support you in maintaining your independence, health and wellbeing.