A personal alarm (also called a careline, telecare or community alarm) lets someone call for help at the press of a button, usually a pendant or wristband linked to a 24/7 monitoring centre or a nominated contact. Fall detectors raise the alarm automatically.
Key facts
- Monitored plans typically cost around £15–£30 a month.
- One-off set-up or device fees are usually £30–£50.
- Your council may provide one, sometimes free, after a care assessment.
- Fall-detector and GPS (out-and-about) versions are available.
How personal alarms work
A typical system has a base unit connected to broadband or mobile signal, plus a wearable pendant or wristband. Press the button and you’re connected to a 24-hour monitoring centre that can talk to you, call a nominated keyholder, or send emergency services. Options include:
- Fall detectors, raise the alarm automatically if a fall is detected.
- GPS alarms, work away from home and can locate the wearer.
- Key safes, let responders get in without forcing a door.
How much do they cost?
Most providers charge a monthly monitoring fee: roughly £15–£20 a month for a basic monitored pendant, and £20–£30+ for fall-detection or GPS plans, usually with a one-off set-up fee of around £30–£50. Unmonitored alarms that simply ring a relative can be cheaper but rely on someone answering.
Free and subsidised options
Many councils run a telecare or community alarm scheme and may provide equipment free or at low cost after a needs assessment, worth checking before buying privately. Attendance Allowance (£76.70 or £114.60 a week, 2026/27) is not restricted in how it’s spent and can help cover the cost; see our funding guide.
How to choose a personal alarm
- Decide if you need fall detection or GPS, or just a home button.
- Check the monitoring centre is accredited (look for TSA membership).
- Confirm contract length, cancellation terms and what happens if broadband fails.
- Check range around the home and battery/charging needs.
Prices are typical market ranges and vary by provider; benefit figures are for 2025/26 and change each April. Check current details directly with providers and your council. General information only. Last reviewed June 2026.