First Contact

First Contact signposting scheme

First Contact photo The First Contact signposting scheme is for people aged from 18 years upwards and helps direct those needing help to services that can provide it. The scheme can also assist anyone who cares for an adult who might need a little extra help.

One simple checklist enables people who need help to receive vital services to stay safe and independent in their homes. Going through First Contact means you can receive a whole host of services without going to the trouble of contacting all of the various different organisations yourself.

For more information call the Energy and Home Support for free and confidential advice.

How does First Contact work?

If a staff member from any of the partner agencies in the scheme goes into a home, such as a firefighter, police officer or volunteer, they will complete a checklist to find out if the older person has any other particular needs for a:

Fire safety check
Home security check
Home repairs or mobility adaptations
Energy saving improvements to keep warm and reduce energy bills
Confidential advice on money entitlements
Signposting to local voluntary and community groups and clubs
Advice on types of housing accommodation that may be available.

Responses to the checklist are fed back to one central point of contact where staff co-ordinate the responses of partner organisations. A representative from the organisation will then contact the client to discuss what might be available.