Fife’s Community Red Button Alarm

For many older and disabled people across North East Fife, living independently in their own homes brings comfort, dignity and a better quality of life. But for some, it also comes with the worry of what might happen in an emergency, especially when help isn’t immediately to hand. That’s where Fife Council’s Community Alarm Service, also known as the “red button” alarm, becomes a true lifeline.

This discreet personal alarm, worn as a pendant or wristband, connects users to a 24/7 emergency response centre. At the press of a button, trained operators can speak to the person in need through the alarm unit, assess the situation, and send help. If the person can’t speak, help is still dispatched without delay.

Support can come in the form of a trusted community groups like the East Neuk First Responders, which is made up of volunteers, or from Fife Council’s Mobile Emergency Care Service (MECS), whose uniformed responders are available round-the-clock. In more serious cases, emergency services will be called. Each alarm is thoroughly checked during installation to ensure strong connectivity, with roaming SIMs able to connect to any network to ensure coverage even in rural or remote parts of North East Fife.

"The red button has been a lifesaver."

One constituent recently got in touch to share just how vital the red button alarm has been for him and his family. Him and his wife have used the emergency alarm three times in the last year. Each time, trained responders from MECS or volunteers from the East Neuk First Responders were on the scene quickly, providing safe, skilled support.

“The red button has been a lifesaver,” the constituent told me. “It gives us confidence, peace of mind, and has helped us avoid having to call an ambulance. We’re incredibly grateful for the help we’ve received, and honestly, this service should be expanded across Fife.”

An Essential Service – And Good for the NHS

The red button doesn’t just support those who use it. By reducing the number of non-urgent ambulance callouts, it also eases pressure on the NHS and emergency services. It’s a brilliant example of a service that is proactive, cost-effective, and rooted in community needs.

How to Apply

The service is available to anyone living alone or at risk due to frailty, illness, disability, sensory impairment, isolation or anxiety. The annual cost is currently £3.24 per week or around £168 per year and can be arranged by contacting the Social Work Contact Centre on 03451 55 15 03. A home visit will be arranged, and the alarm will be installed and tested.

I’m proud to support Fife Council’s red button alarm service and incredibly grateful to constituents who’ve shared their experiences. Services like this empower people to live safely at home, give carers and families peace of mind, and take pressure off our emergency services. I would encourage anyone who thinks they might benefit, or has a loved one who could, to find out more.

You can learn more about community support services at: Fife Council Community Life Hub