What is Data Link?
Data Link is an emergency information pack for anyone living at home who has a medical condition or who is taking medication. It provides essential information for the Emergency Services should the individual suffer an accident or sudden illness.
How does the scheme work?
The individual’s medical details are stored in a clearly labeled plastic container which is kept in the fridge. Two matching labels, known to the Emergency Services and other care agencies, are displayed in the house. One is attached to the outside of the fridge door, the other to the front door. For security and confidentiality, the label is attached to the inside of the front door where it cannot be seen from the outside.
In the event that the person is taken ill or collapses, the Emergency Services on arriving at their house will check the front door for a Data Link sticker, and will then retrieve the medical details from the fridge. This valuable information can be essential in ensuring that the correct medical treatment is administered as quickly as possible.
Who can benefit from the scheme?
Anyone with health problems or someone who is taking medication can benefit from the Data Link scheme. For example, people with long-term illnesses such as asthma, diabetes and epilepsy, or people who suffer allergic reactions to certain foods or drugs. Anyone with a serious medical condition such as a heart problem, or someone taking special drugs such as anti-coagulants, would feel reassured knowing that their vital details would be immediately available to the Emergency Services. These are just a few examples - the scheme will benefit anyone with a condition that could leave them vulnerable in an emergency.
Who is behind Data Link?
The Data Link scheme is supported and sponsored by many organisations, such as Age Concern, Bedford Hospital, Bedfordshire & Luton Fire & Rescue Service, Bedfordshire Police, Bedford Lions Club, and so on. Bedfordshire Home Watch is also part of this multi-agency partnership.
How much does it cost?
Nothing! The Data Link scheme is completely free of charge! The containers, forms and stickers are freely available from most pharmacies and doctors surgeries in Bedfordshire.
What do I have to do?
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from the protection and reassurance provided by the scheme, simply call in at your local pharmacy or doctors surgery and ask for a Data Link container. If more than one person in your household would like to use the scheme, just ask for extra forms as necessary. The pictures below provide a step-by-step guide to using the containers - click on the thumbnails for a larger picture.
