Queen’s Award for Enterprise presented to Cumbrian firm

A Cumbrian company which helps keep older people safe every day has been presented with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

Alertacall, which has offices in Windermere and Warrington, was presented with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation by Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria Claire Hensman at an event at Brockhole-on-Windermere on Friday.

The company was founded by tech entrepreneur James Batchelor, inventor of the OK Each Day button, which allows people to simply press a button each day to let Alertacall’s team know they are OK.

If people do not press the button a member of Alertacall’s team will contact them and, if necessary, contact family members, housing providers or medical professionals.

James, of Kendal, initially invented the device to allow his 86-year-old grandmother Eveline to continue living independently.

Today it comes in the form of a digital touchscreen and is used by tens of thousands of older and vulnerable people all over the UK, mostly living in social or supported housing.

Housing providers can use the touchscreen to communicate with tenants and provide news and updates. Residents can also use it to make video calls to neighbours, family or friends.

Alertacall also provides WiFi for housing providers, as well as remote door entry systems, which let people use the touchscreen to see and talk to visitors before letting them in.

James said: “I am thrilled that all our hard work has been recognised with a Queen’s Award and I hope it reflects a wider awareness of the importance of challenging social isolation.

“Social isolation is a growing issue, especially for older people who are living alone. Alertacall has always been about combining technology with direct contact with another human being to combat loneliness and keep people safe, connected and happy.

“We know all too well the mental and physical health problems that can be caused by loneliness, but the good news is that we can all help by taking time to reach out and connect with neighbours, friends and family.

“The team at Alertacall have certainly been doing their bit since we launched in 2004 and we’re determined to keep growing our service and refining our products to help improve the lives of more and more people long into the future.”