Independence and peace of mind could soon be a push of a button away for many vulnerable older people in Wigan, thanks to the launch of a new council service. The Assistive Technology Service (ATS) will allow elderly people to live at home in safety using cutting edge technology to monitor risks.

ATS will provide people with an early warning of when they might be at risk to make sure they receive help quickly.

Project manager Jane Stevens said: "We supply and fit a range of detectors in people's homes which are linked to a telephone alarm unit. When they are activated they automatically generate a call to a 24-hour control centre. The system allows us to check on such things as whether the client has got up in the morning or if they've left the gas on. In circumstances such as these, staff at the control centre will take action."

The system being developed in Wigan will initially focus on those prone to falls or need help in managing their medication.

Wigan Council's Department of Adult Services has teamed up with Ashton, Leigh and Wigan PCT, Wigan and Leigh Housing, other registered social landlords and the borough's Partnership for Older People Projects (POPPS) to create the scheme.

Coun Kevin Anderson, Wigan Council's Champion for Healthier Communities and Older People, said: "This project is all about allowing vulnerable older people to live the independent lives they want to."

The service will be officially launched at The Rowans sheltered scheme in Tyldesley by Mayor and Mayoress of Wigan Coun John and Mrs Hazel O'Brien JP, on May 31.

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