A DISABLED pensioner is staying independent thanks to the first hi-tech personal safety alarm of its kind in the country.

The system was specially created for wheelchair-bound Pauline Johnson, who has multiple sclerosis and suffered a stroke earlier this year.

The 70-year-old is unable to use her hands after her stroke but she can get help in an emergency by blowing down a special tube.

This will put her in direct contact with CareLink Plus, Brighton and Hove City Council’s community alarm service.

Officers there can talk to Mrs Johnson through her communication system and help can reach her in minutes if needed.

This means Mrs Johnson can keep her independence and live in her own flat in Brighton.

Staff at CareLink combined a system that enables patients with disabilities to trigger a call for help with a switch specially imported from the USA, which connects it to the service’s call centre.

Mrs Johnson said: “I had a lot of falls before I started using a wheelchair and wasn’t able to get up again.

“Having my Carelink alarm saved me every time because they were able to send paramedics to help me.

“After my stroke in June, I was in hospital for over six weeks and when I came out I still couldn’t use my hands. So CareLink Plus came up with this system especially for me.

“It’s so easy to use. If I had another crisis in the night it could be a life-saver for me.

“Without CareLink Plus I would have had to move into a nursing home by now.”

CareLink Plus manager Joel Caines said: “Fixing up Pauline’s bespoke system wasn’t easy, but we always strive to help people stay independent through new and creative ways of using technology.

“We are all dedicated to going the extra mile to help our clients.”

The team is on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week – giving peace of mind for residents, their family, friends and carers.