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Families across Rodney and the wider Auckland region are set to benefit from upgraded safety technology aimed at protecting vulnerable residents who may go missing.
New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded WanderSearch Auckland Charitable Trust a $5000 grant to refurbish 200 safety tracking devices for people with cognitive impairments, helping families stay connected and giving peace-of-mind that loved ones can be located quickly if they wander.
Wandersearch programme manager Michelle Webb-Atkinson says it’s ideal for Rodney residents with conditions such as dementia or autism, who may wander and become lost or disoriented. It’s also free.
The tracking devices emit a unique electronic signal detectable by trained search and rescue personnel.
They support independence while reducing stress and isolation for both clients and their families.
“Having a loved one wear a tracking device provides peace-of-mind to whanau and friends, and our goal is to ensure all those who need a tracking device can easily access one,” Webb-Atkinson says.
Wandersearch has already had good feedback from Auckland residents.
“My husband has gone missing three times to date, the last time for two hours but the police managed to find him still safe and without distress,” one client said.
Since 2009
WanderSearch Auckland Charitable Trust, formerly WandaTrak, provides radio frequency tracking devices for people with cognitive impairments.
Devices are worn as wristbands, necklaces or key rings, and allow police search and rescue, as well as Land Search and Rescue volunteers, to locate individuals quickly and safely.
Since 2009, WanderSearch has supported hundreds of clients across Auckland, helping them maintain independence, reduce isolation and provide peace-of-mind to families.
