How to buy the best personal alarm

Personal alarms enable you to call for assistance if you have an accident or fall at home. Some models can also alert a family member, carer or 24-hour response centre so that help can be arranged as quickly as possible.

They're simple to use and can help you stay safer and remain independent for longer. These potentially lifesaving devices can also offer peace of mind to family and friends.

There's a wide variety available, and they work in different ways. Some are connected to 24/7 emergency response centres, while others simply make a loud noise to alert people nearby or directly alert your family, carer or friends. 

Here, we explain the different types of personal alarms, how much you should expect to pay, some of the key brands offering personal alarms, and more.

Types of personal alarms

Basic personal alarm

Basic personal alarms work by sounding a loud noise when a button is pressed on the device – they alert people within hearing distance that you need assistance. 

This could be someone else at home, a relative, a carer or even a neighbour. 

Although the system is basic, it can help you move around your home independently, knowing that someone will be on hand if you need them. 

Pros

• No setup fees or monthly subscription

Cons

• Only people within hearing distance of the alarm can help, so it won't work if your family and friends live elsewhere or are away when you need assistance
• No contact-centre support

Pendant alarm

Pendant alarms can connect you with an emergency response centre should you need help.

Simply pressing a button on the pendant, watch or device sends an alert to an emergency response centre via the base unit in your home.

The centre provides 24-hour monitoring and responds to a range of incidents, including falls, accidents and rogue callers.

When you contact staff, they'll decide whether you need emergency services or if they need to call one of your chosen, trusted contacts.

Several companies offer the service, which typically has an initial setup fee and then an ongoing monthly or annual subscription fee.

The monthly fee depends on the type of service; for example, you can expect to pay more if you need a longer alert range (from the base unit).

Some pendant alarms let you speak directly through the device; others have a loudspeaker in the base unit so that staff can talk to you.

Pros

• A range of subscriptions and options to fit your needs
• 24/7 emergency cover
• Some models allow direct communication through the device

Cons

• May require a one-off setup fee

Fall detectors

These can give you reassurance that if you do fall, help will be available as quickly as possible. 

A fall alarm is very similar to a pendant alarm, the key difference being that it works automatically.

It uses an in-built motion sensor to detect any unexpected fall or downward motion, then sends an alert to a call centre or a loved one. Some models allow you to talk directly to the call centre via a two-way speaker, either on the device or a base unit.

Fall detectors are paid for as part of a monthly subscription and require an installation fee to get things up and running. Many providers offer models that combine a fall alarm and pendant-type alarm in a single device.

Pros

• Devices work automatically
• 24/7 emergency cover

Cons

• Service can be costly
• May require an additional one-off setup fee

Lifeline alarms

Local authorities and councils operate community alarm systems, sometimes called a lifeline alarm service. 

If you sign up, you’ll receive a base unit and a pendant, and generally won't be charged for installation through the council.

There is a charge for using the service, but this may be subsidised or free if you're deemed eligible in a council care funding assessment.

Read more about council funding in our guide to how to pay for care at home.

Pros

• Service provided through the local council
• Some councils offer free installation and system check-ups

Cons

• Can involve a monthly/annual subscription

GPS tracking

GPS tracking alarms mean your location can be pinpointed if something happens when you're away from home. 

Whereas some pendant alarms are limited in their range, GPS tracking alarms have no location restrictions, so they can be used anywhere within the UK. We recommend checking with your alarm provider to find out whether or not a GPS tracker alarm works abroad.

If the tracker requires a mobile connection to operate, the user will need to be in an area with sufficient network coverage. 

Most also have a panic or SOS button, so users can get help from a 24-hour monitoring team that will alert family members or emergency services. 

Some GPS trackers allow users to communicate with staff members at a contact centre. This type of tracking service requires an initial setup fee and a monthly subscription cost. 

Pros

• You can get the same protection of a personal alarm when you're out and about, giving you more freedom
• Most have a panic or SOS function

Cons 

• Pricier than a standard personal alarm, with service that relies on paying a monthly/annual subscription

Find out how you could benefit from a range of technology to help you, including whole-home smart monitoring, in our telecare guide 

How much does a personal alarm cost?

The cost depends on the level of alarm or service you want. Here's a rough guide:

• Basic personal alarm Releases a loud noise to let people around you know you're in distress – £5-£20. No ongoing fees.
• Pendant alarms Provide 24-hour assistance – typically require an initial setup fee (£30-£50) followed by a monthly/yearly subscription (£15-£20 a month). 
• Fall detectors 24-hour monitoring service – also require a setup fee (£30-£50). Marginally more expensive than a pendant alarm on a monthly basis, costing around £19-£27.
• GPS tracking alarm The most expensive option. GPS trackers have a similar setup fee to other systems (£30-£50), but tend to have a more expensive monthly cost of £21-£30.

It’s worth checking whether your local authority offers a lifeline alarm service, as some provide the service for around £14 a month without installation fees.

Many systems use long-life batteries, which last between two and five years. You may need to buy replacement batteries if yours runs low.

Will I have to pay VAT on a personal alarm?

Telecare services and personal alarms are eligible for VAT relief in the UK if you're disabled or have a long-term illness and any of the following three statements apply: 

• You have a physical or mental impairment that affects your ability to carry out everyday activities.
• You have a condition such as diabetes or arthritis that’s treated as a chronic illness.
• You are terminally ill.

You don’t qualify if you’re temporarily disabled.

Find out more about VAT reductions and exemptions for disabled people and people aged 60 or over on Gov.uk. 

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Can I get a free personal alarm?

No, but many councils offer lifeline and pendant alarms at more manageable prices. 

Also, because you rent the equipment from the council, installation is normally free, and they will come and fix it if you have any problems.

To check whether your local council provides a lifeline alarm service, enter your postcode on the Gov.uk website. 

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Personal alarm provider costs compared

If you're looking to buy a personal alarm privately, we've rounded up some of the main providers below, along with some information on what they offer and typical costs.

Please note, we haven't reviewed personal alarm providers' services. This information just to help you compare options and prices more easily. 

Providers are listed in alphabetical order.

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What should I look for in a personal alarm?

There’s no point paying for more than you need, so consider the type of equipment and level of service you require. 

Here are some of the key things to consider if you're going private:

• Meeting quality standards Some providers are QSF certified, which means they're audited against quality standards devised by the TSA (Telecare Services Association), including responding to 97.5% of calls within 60 seconds. You can see which organisations are certified on the TEC website.
• Subscription fee If you opt for an alarm that’s linked to a monitoring service, you’ll usually need to pay an ongoing subscription fee, in addition to any setup charge. This fee may be charged on a yearly or monthly basis, and there may be an additional cost if you want extra services, such as a fall detector.
• Range Check the distance range of the product if you plan to wear it in the garden. Also check that you're able to hear the response centre.
• Batteries Ask how long the batteries will last, how you'll know if they’re running low, and whose responsibility it is to replace them. Also check what happens in the event of a power cut.
• Emergency numbers Check how many you can have, so you have options if you need help.
• Is it waterproof? If you choose a wearable device, you’ll probably want to wear it in the bathroom.
• Security You might need a keysafe (a lockable box outside your home with a spare door key inside) so that authorised people can get into your home if the alarm is sounded. You can buy these separately or from the company providing the personal alarm. It's recommended to buy a keysafe with a 'Police Preferred' accreditation.
• False alarms If you're concerned about accidentally calling for help, find out how easy it is to cancel a false alarm.

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Do you need an internet connection for a personal alarm?

The UK’s landline network is currently being upgraded from an analogue system to a digital connection – a process known as the digital switchover, which will be completed in 2027.

If you have a personal alarm, you should contact your landline provider as soon as possible to let it know. It will flag you as a telecare user on its system, which will mean it can give you an enhanced support service and a quicker response time. 

Ofcom has also made it a requirement for telecoms providers to identify people who are reliant on their landline and provide them with a free back-up option in case there's a power outage.

We think some providers aren't doing enough to protect customers; see the full story on telecare providers still selling analogue alarms.

If you have an analogue device, meaning it doesn’t use a wi-fi or Sim connection, your provider will defer migrating you to digital services to allow for time to confirm that the device will continue to work. 

You can find out more in our guide to the digital switchover.

How to make sure your personal alarm is ready for the digital switchover

Check the following before buying:

• Look for words and phrases like 'IP', 'VoIP-compatible', 'digital-ready', or 'cloud-based' – these show that a device is compatible with the digital switchover.
• Avoid listings that only mention 'analogue phone line' or 'PSTN', as these devices won't work after the digital switchover and will last until 2027 at the very latest. If the product description says 'plugs into standard phone socket' or 'uses traditional landline', it's likely to be analogue. 
• Avoid older models like Tunstall Lifeline VI, which are analogue.
• Look for official or certified distributors. Be extremely cautious with listings from private sellers on Amazon or eBay - these might be out-of-date, offer limited customer support, and harder to verify that it's genuine and safety-tested. 
• Check whether the device includes ongoing support or software updates.
• A digital device may require a broadband router, Sim card or power backup. If you're unsure what's needed, a good private provider should be able to support you so you can get set up with a futureproofed product.

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How long does a personal alarm go off for?

If you're using a basic alarm that emits a loud noise, it will sound for as long as you press the button or until the battery runs out. 

Some basic alarms are fitted with a pin that sounds when it's removed from the device; it will then continue to make a noise until the pin is reinserted.

Alternatively, pendant alarms that are connected to a 24-hour monitoring centre should be answered almost immediately.

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Is there a personal alarm that can alert someone in the house?

If you're looking for a personal alarm that alerts other people in the house when you're in difficulty, consider a basic alarm. 

These emit a loud noise when either a button is pressed or a small pin is pulled out of the device.

Personal alarms and telecare

If you’re shopping around for a personal alarm, you’ll probably come across the phrase ‘telecare’. Essentially, this means technology that can remotely monitor someone’s activity (usually in their home) and send an alert to a call centre or carer when needed. Personal alarms are often a key component of this service.

Our telecare guide explains your options, from basic 24/7 personal alarm telecare services to sophisticated smart systems that can combine a personal alarm with various sensors, such as movement sensors or heat sensors. This can alert a carer about a range of situations, such as if you leave the property, slip out of your bed or chair, or appear to be inactive for too long.