Pictured are, from left: Vi Dupont, Rotary’s John Waller, Age Concern’s Barbara Benfield, and Ann Haddock. (0877426)

A HUNDRED Data Link boxes have been donated to Alderney Age Concern.

The tiny devices, which contain information on a person’s medication, medical history and next of kin, were presented to Barbara Benfield by Rotary’s John Waller earlier this week.

John, who is the Rotary Club of Alderney’s community, vocational and youth service chairman, explained how they work.

‘You put a box inside a person’s fridge and place a sticker that informs people they have a box on the inside of their front door,’ he said.

‘The boxes contain information about medication, such as where it’s kept, and details about a person’s blood group, their doctor and any allergies they may have.

‘Each box costs just 50p but they could help save time in a potentially life-threatening situation.’

Barbara thanked Rotary for its ongoing support of Alderney Age Concern and echoed John’s comments about the boxes.

‘They really could save lives,’ said Barbara. ‘They could make life much easier for our ambulance, which is nearly always first on the scene if someone’s collapsed or suffered a stroke. It also means that first responders can take a box with them so hospital staff have all the information they need.’

John said Rotary would provide as many boxes as islanders needed.

‘Posters will be put up in the doctors’ surgeries and the pharmacy informing people about the boxes. Anyone who’s interested should get in touch with Barbara, who will distribute them.’

John also presented a cheque for £250 to Barbara – money that will help Alderney Age Concern run the community bus.

‘A huge thank you to Rotary for the boxes and the money for the bus,’ said Barbara. ‘Rotary supports lots of charities and organisations in the island and is very generous.’

Those who would like a Data Link box should call Barbara on 07781 123637.