Specialist technology company Alertacall is improving resident safety and security with the launch of its new video door entry system which residents interact with from the comfort of their armchair.
The technology is being introduced as part of Alertacall’s Housing Proactive service, a specialist housing management system which increases contact with older people and those with additional needs.
Full colour, high resolution video calls of the visitor are sent to either a Housing Proactive touchscreen device in a resident’s property. The touchscreen app includes an on-screen door release button and has been designed for greater convenience. It is particularly useful for those with mobility issues living in supported, sheltered or extra care housing, who can receive the video call on a device which they can keep close to them, rather than using intercoms on the wall of their homes. This also helps to minimise the risk of falls.
The system incorporates a digital intercom panel for use at the communal entry points. The panel delivers its door entry call to residents over a WiFi connection, or to a contact centre using digital telephony without any requirement for hard wired infrastructure in the traditional sense. This enables housing providers to replace hardwired systems with wireless networks ahead of Digital Switchover in 2025.
The door entry solution forms part of a range of technology Alertacall is introducing to help social landlords create smart and connected homes. These innovations are designed to increase two-way communication with residents and support crime prevention as identified in the Government’s recent Charter for residents, the Social Housing White Paper, which stated: ‘A home should provide safety, security and dignity.’
The intercom panel as anti-tamper design features to improve security, is weatherproof and also utilises multiple power supplies to ensure service continuity. An HD camera also uses infrared to capture night vision footage and keeps recording for a few seconds after visitors (including, family, friends or carers) enter the building. This helps to identify potential intruders and create safer, smarter and more connected homes
For further security, an audit trail of access is also recorded, keeping a video call log of all visitors, whether missed or answered. Residents are able to view this information through their touchscreen. The system can also be configured remotely and securely by housing staff.
Martin Cutbill, Director of Alertacall, said: “We are proud that our innovations in door entry solutions have been developed to ensure that residents feel more secure in their own homes. The service easily integrates with our Housing Proactive service and is straightforward to install, with the video image able to be in the most convenient place for the resident.
“Many housing providers are defining their digital vision in preparation for the 2025 digital switchover, including where ageing hard-wired door entry systems need replacing. Social landlords have an excellent opportunity now to introduce lower-cost, higher specification systems that can deliver video door entry to residents using a wireless network and smart devices.”
Housing Proactive from Alertacall combines digital engagement and personal contact with residents with higher needs for enhanced housing management, enabling contact with a highly trained team who cares. The Housing Proactive solution includes an eight-inch portable touchscreen, which when used as a standalone service doesn’t require hardwiring or WiFi to be installed due to built-in connectivity, and is digital switchover ready. The touchscreen simply plugs in with an easy-to-use interface and comes with a free repairs reporting app, OKEachDay button and two-way flexible messaging capability.
