A care firm which provides a 24/7 response to elderly or vulnerable people has launched a new call centre.

It follows the controversial closure of the former Careline service, run by social landlord Riverside.

Artemis Domicillary Care Ltd is one of two providers which stepped in to ensure an emergency response service is available to those who need it in the Carlisle area. The other is Eden Housing Association, which has now partnered with Riverside.

Artemis, based at Carlisle Enterprise Centre on James Street, wanted to ensure nobody missed out. On hearing of the Careline closure they set about creating a new call centre and taking on additional staff.

Elderly and vulnerable clients are given alarms that they can trigger in times of crisis. The call centre team will then speak to the client, while a response team will go out to the property.

Jodie Blackwood, of Artemis, said there are two call handlers on at any one time, along with additional response staff. “It’s that peace of mind, knowing they can get someone who can help at any time of the day or night,” she said.

After Careline announced its closure, there were fears vulnerable and elderly residents would be left without a lifeline. It prompted local campaigners to launch a petition to save it.

Artemis’s new call centre opened last Friday. The firm can also provide home care alongside the response service if needed.