Bracelets to protect vulnerable

A new project is being set up in Devon to protect vulnerable people.

The Safely Home scheme involves providing a bracelet to elderly people with dementia to help identify them should they get lost.

The joint initiative is being run by Torbay Care Trust, Devon and Cornwall Police, Torbay Council and the Alzheimer's Society.

The bracelet contains a unique ID code and telephone number which links to a 24-hour support service.

Trained operators will then be able to help return the person home safely.

The primary aim is to help people who have wandered from home and may be confused.

Jim Delves, chairman of Torbay's Alzheimer's Society, said: "Safely Home will be of immense benefit to carers, giving them additional peace of mind and helping to minimise the stresses involved in being a main carer."