First Contact Signposting Scheme

The First Contact Signposting Scheme enables people aged over 60 to access a range of essential services that will help them to retain independence at home

People can receive help, advice or information on:

clubs and societies, falls prevention, home fire safety checks, home security/crime reduction, housing, pensions, social care, transport services, welfare benefits advice

The scheme is a partnership of key agencies and organisations, and it now operates in Rushcliffe, Gedling and Broxtowe. In 2006, First Contact was recognised as an 'Exemplar Project' by the Improvement and Development Agency and it has also received a number of awards of recognition.

"Last year I was ill and frightened and on my own. After this visit I have more confidence, feel safer and feel that life cannot get any better".

First Contact Service-user

How does First Contact work?

If a staff member from any of the partner agencies 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 older person to discuss what might be available.

Who is involved in First Contact?

First Contact partners include:

Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service
Handyperson schemes
Falls Prevention services
District or Borough Housing Departments
Nottinghamshire County Council
Energy Efficiency Advice Centres
Registered Social Landlords
Primary Care Trusts
Crime Reduction Manager
Pension Service
Nottinghamshire Welfare Rights Service
Community Car Schemes.

How First Contact helped Mrs. S

Mrs S referred to First Contact from a visit by Rushcliffe Home Alarms. A checklist was completed and referred to the Pension Service and to the fire and rescue service.

This lady had been bereaved for two months prior to anyone making contact. The Home Alarms service fitted an alarm within three days of their call, the fire and rescue service fitted two smoke alarms within two weeks and the Pension Service contacted the customer and visited within 4 days and completed a claim for increased State Pension. This was awarded at £49.67 per week and £596.04 arrears were also paid.

Through First Contact Mrs S was able to gain access to services to meet her needs at a time of change. Through one visit she accessed four separate services. Mrs S was unaware of the range of services to support her and the correct pension entitlement has improved her quality of life.

How do I find out more?

Coordinator for Rushcliffe is Arun Lall. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Coordinator for Gedling and Broxtowe is Bev Walker. Email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it