News & Events

Working Solo

Monday 11th December 2017

So you have your own business up and running, delivering the best possible service to your clients. Dark, icy nights don't stop you as you go about your busy schedule. You could be driving and delivering goods, or deliver your service in people's homes, or work in remote areas. Your clients trust you to do a good job, and you trust your clients to be welcoming and respect your work.

Lone working is becoming more and more common. Many self employed people are often the only person involved in the business and although this can be very empowering and rewarding, have you ever stopped to consider your safety? Does anyone else know your day to day schedule? What happens if you feel you have to get out of a situation quickly because you don't feel safe or if you have an accident on a job or on the road?

Although it isn't a pleasant thing to think about, it is important to put things in place should you ever need to leave a situation quickly or tell someone that things are not right.

There are a number of procedures you can put in place to safeguard yourself and your business.

Doing an initial risk assessment before entering a client's home or starting a journey is always good practice, as well as letting a friend or family member know your daily whereabouts.

You can also use technology to help you. It can range from a simple text message to a friend or family member to let them know your appointments that day, to a shared calander on Google or you can download a specially designed app. There are lots on the market and prices and functionality vary widely so you are bound to find something that will suit your business and budget!

Here are a few we've come across to give you a flavor of what is available - there are many more!

Alert a buddy

  • Operates via any mobile phone
  • Locates user using GSM/GPS technology
  • Synchronises with users' Outlook Calendar
  • Flexible contracts, no minimum number of users
  • Free, no-obligation trials

http://www.alertabuddy.com/webmain/alertabuddy/index.php

LoneAlert

  • Variety of lone worker devices to suit every industry
  • Minimum trainin required, easy to understand and use
  • Peace of mind for everyone while you are alone at work

Varied products to suit all budgets, can be used from your existing phone or you can purchase one of their alarm fobs.

http://www.lonealert.co.uk

Lookout Call

  • Works on any mobile phone- no need for extra gadgets
  • Timed Activity, Emergency Panic Button and Watch Me facilities
  • Developed with the NHS and major utilities companies

https://www.lookoutcall.co.uk/

Guardian 24

  • Range of devices to suit different requirements
  • GSM, GPS & Fall Alarm technology
  • Free trial

http://guardian24.co.uk/