Residents in the Braintree district are being asked to keep a special eye on elderly neighbours and relatives, to make sure they stay well over the winter.

Anyone who knows they have a neighbour or relation who is on their own and elderly, is being asked to ensure they are warm and have not fallen ill.

Welfare organiser of the Braintree Pensioners Action Group, Phyllis Webb, said: "Some of us may have relatives or friends in care homes, or neighbours living near by who live alone and are elderly. Just pop in to take a look at them."

One way for elderly people to have more peace of mind over the winter season, is a scheme called Care Call, which has been run by Braintree District Council for about 12 years.

This is where an elderly person can have the security of knowing they are within easy reach of some one, if they have an accident or are taken ill.

A cord with a speaker on the wall or a pendant round the neck can both be activated to go straight to council staff, who will assess the situation.

If there is no reply from the person, or it seems serious, the emergency services will be called or the Care Call operators will phone a relative who has a key to the house.

The person's medical and family history is on a computer, which makes it easier to see what attention they may need.

Chris Trim, press officer at the council, said: "About 2,000 people use the system at the moment, but there is room for 50,000.

"This is a superb life line for people who are elderly, feel isolated or are disabled. They have the security of knowing some one can get to them if for instance they fall over.

"It is also peace of mind for sons and daughters who can not get to their parents over Christmas. Some people have to pay for it, but they are in the minority. It is available 24 hours, 365 days a year," he said.

Call Kerin Thorpe at the council on 01376 551414 for further information.

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