Changes to the Care Link service in Wakefield

Care Link helps people live independently by providing emergency alarms and support.

VICO Homes currently provide this service for Wakefield Council and the district's residents. VICO Homes have announced that its Care Link telecare and responder service will close from September 2026.

The changes affect residents differently depending on the arrangements of their service. Please read the information carefully.

There are two groups of Care Link customers in Wakefield

Private paying customers

If you arranged and pay for your Care Link service directly with VICO Homes:

• VICO Homes has told us they plan to end their Care Link service for private customers by March 2026
• VICO has contacted its private customers directly about these changes
• VICO has said it will support private customers to move safely to a new provider of their choice

If you’re a private paying customer and have questions about your service or next steps, you should contact VICO Homes.

VICO Customer Contact Team: 0345 8 507 507

Council arranged Care Link customers

If your Care Link service is arranged by Wakefield Council as part of an agreed care plan:

• you should see no change to your service, Care Link service will continue as normal up until September 2026
• by no later than September 2026, telecare and responder services will continue with a new provider, with no gap in support

Wakefield Council does not foresee any issues in sourcing a suitable new provider. This work forms part of the council’s normal procurement process. This makes sure there is safe, reliable and continuous support for residents.

All council-arranged Care Link customers should have received a letter to reassure them that their service will continue. And that their safety remains our priority.

What Wakefield Council is doing

We understand that changes like this can feel worrying. Especially for people who rely on Care Link to stay safe and independent.

Wakefield Council is:

• working with VICO Homes to understand the impact of these changes
• making progress to make sure continued Care Link support for council funded customers
• planning carefully so that anyone who needs help continues to receive it
• monitoring and responding to emerging needs

Not sure which group you’re in?

If you’re unsure whether you’re a private paying customer or have a council arranged service you can contact VICO Homes. They can help explain your options and offer advice based on your situation.

If you’re worried about someone’s safety

If you are concerned about the immediate safety or wellbeing of yourself or someone else. Please contact Social Care Direct so we can provide the right support.