Care service firm insisting on key safes fitted outside homes

By Maurice Garvey

A NEW policy by a home assist company advises clients to install a key safe outside their home by July 29.

Crumlin Home Care Service Ltd have advised clients that the new policy will come into effect from August 2.

 

At present, the company has possession of a key to access homes, but under the new policy, employees will no longer handle keys, but use key safes which must be mounted at eye level in a well-lit area.

The company told The Echo this will improve their access to clients who are not mobile.

However, Crumlin/Kimmage Sinn Féin Councillor Ray McHugh says the new policy, has created security concerns for residents who use the service.

Cllr McHugh said: “This is advertising that a senior citizen lives in this house, and I have spoken to gardaí and they feel also that this is not a great idea. It has created panic among the senior citizens involved.

“I’m concerned not only for security, but also the cost to our senior citizens of getting a key safe installed. Also, I think insurance companies would be reluctant to insure a house with a key outside. I have written to Crumlin Home Care Services, asking them to withdraw its change in policy regarding keys.”

A Crumlin Home Care Services source said Age Ireland have offered to install cheap, and in some cases, free key safes for pensioners.

“Our problem is not being able to get in to see people, who are not mobile,” said the source.

“I can understand the concerns, but it can be awkward for us to access homes.”

In a letter by the company sent to clients, it says “the code to this safe is your choice and will only be given to our carers assigned to you by Crumlin Home Care Services Ltd.”