Thirty-six life-saving systems still available as March deadline approaches
OLDER deaf and hard of hearing people across Wales are being urged to come forward for potentially life-saving support, as part of a partnership between Wales & West Utilities and Care & Repair Cymru.
Thirty-six specialist carbon monoxide (CO) alarm systems remain available to vulnerable older residents who may not be protected by standard audible alarms. Eligible individuals are being encouraged to apply – or seek a referral – before the end of March, when the current phase of the scheme comes to an end.
The initiative is being delivered through Care & Repair Cymru’s Managing Better project and funded in partnership with Wales & West Utilities. It aims to address the heightened risks faced by people who are deaf or hard of hearing and may not be alerted by traditional sound-based alarms.
Carbon monoxide poses a serious threat to health. The gas is odourless, colourless and invisible, making it particularly dangerous if undetected. Standard CO alarms rely on sound alerts, which may not be effective for those with hearing loss. The project seeks to remove that barrier by providing accessible technology that ensures alerts can be seen or felt – not just heard.
Care & Repair Cymru is distributing the specialist alarm systems, each of which includes a CO detector transmitter that can link to a range of compatible devices depending on individual need. These include vibrating pagers, bed shakers and wearable alert watches, helping to ensure users are notified both day and night.
To qualify for the equipment, applicants must be aged 50 or over, be deaf or have hearing loss, and not already have a suitable CO alarm that meets their needs.
Sophie Stone, Vulnerability & Carbon Monoxide Manager at Wales & West Utilities, said:
“We are committed to keeping communities safe and supporting those most vulnerable to gas-related risks. By working in partnership with Care & Repair Cymru, we can help ensure deaf and hard of hearing people are not left unprotected from the dangers of carbon monoxide. With 36 units still available, and the project ending in March, we encourage anyone who may benefit to come forward.
“Through our VCMA programme, we’re committed to ensuring that everyone — particularly those in vulnerable circumstances — has access to the right advice, support and safety information.”
Anyone who could benefit from one of the specialist CO alarm systems, or who wishes to refer someone else, is asked to contact Care & Repair Cymru on 0300 111 3333 or email [email protected] before the end of March. The remaining alarms will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
Wales & West Utilities is the gas emergency and pipeline service for Wales and the south west of England, delivering energy to more than 7.5 million people. The company does not sell gas but transports it through an underground network spanning more than 35,000 kilometres of pipes.
