Thames Valley Housing Association has given almost 100 Identicom lone worker devices from Connexion2 to its accommodation officers, revenue teams and neighbourhood staff as well as other occasional lone workers. The ACPO-accredited Identicom device looks like a standard identity card holder for easy wear, discreet use and peace of mind for staff working outside close or direct supervision.
TVHA is using the devices as part of SoloProtect which is fully-managed solution with inclusive billing incorporating Identicom, 24/7 manned monitoring, SIM card and mobile network usage, device training and monthly reporting.
The Identicom devices will replace the mobile and landline phones and emergency codes that TVHA used in the past.
Suki Kahlon, facilities officer, Thames Valley Housing Association, said, “We needed a more robust system than before for our lone workers so we have made Identicom part of our health and safety policy. With Identicom, personnel can use the ‘red alert’ at any time they feel vulnerable, knowing that if required they can quickly get support.”
TVHA staff entering a new or possibly dangerous situation can activate an ‘amber alert’ to leave a brief voice message detailing where they are, whom they are seeing and the possible risks. This message is accessed by an alarm receiving centre (ARC) if a ’red alert’ is subsequently triggered from the device. ARC staff can then discreetly listen to what is happening and assess the level of support required. All audio captured through the device is recorded for future use as court evidence if required.
The cost of SoloProtect ranges from £10.95 per month per person to around £25 per month.
