Dementia safeguarding scheme
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Dementia safeguarding scheme: Tap your phone to get me home
What is the scheme?
The dementia wristband or tag scheme is a community safety initiative designed to support people living with dementia who may become disoriented or lost when out in public. It provides a simple way for individuals to be identified as needing support, while allowing them to maintain their independence and dignity.
The scheme offers reassurance to families and carers by helping ensure that, if assistance is needed, the person can be safely reunited with their loved ones. It also encourages community awareness and involvement, creating a safer and more supportive environment for people living with dementia.
How does it work?
In the dementia safeguarding scheme, NFC (Near Field Communication) chips are used as a simple and secure way to help identify someone who may need support if they become lost or confused.
Each wristband or tag contains a small NFC chip that stores a secure link to the person’s safeguarding information. When the chip is brought close to a smartphone, it triggers the phone to open that link automatically. The information shown is limited and purposeful, typically displaying the person’s name and the contact details of their next of kin or carer, rather than sensitive personal or medical data.
The chips do not have GPS tracking, do not require batteries, and do not transmit information unless a phone is placed very close to them. This helps protect privacy while still enabling quick, practical support. The use of NFC allows members of the public or professionals to assist someone safely and discreetly, supporting the overall aim of the scheme: safeguarding people living with dementia while promoting independence and dignity.
Who is eligible?
The scheme is only available to:
- Residents of County Durham or Darlington
- An individual living with dementia
How do I sign up?
The dementia wristband and tag scheme is currently being delivered alongside Herbert Protocol visits. At this time, anyone completing a new Herbert Protocol application will be eligible to receive a wristband or tag as part of the process.
Please contact [email protected] to request a visit.
What do I do if I locate somebody wearing a band or tag?
Members of the public who notice someone wearing a wristband or tag and who appears lost, disoriented, or confused are encouraged to approach them calmly and offer reassurance. The wristband contains important information that can help return the person to safety and is designed to be easy for anyone to use.
The wristband uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, which allows a mobile phone to read the information stored on it. To access the details, simply hold your mobile phone close to the wristband. Your screen will then display the name and contact number of the person’s next of kin.
By calling the next of kin directly, you can help reunite the individual with their family or carers quickly and safely.
Please note, if using an Apple phone or a phone with NFC disabled, you may need to download an NFC app, such as NFC Tools, to read the wristband.
For more information on the Herbert Protocol, click here.
For more information on the dementia safeguarding scheme, click here.