How much does the GPS cost?
If you or someone you are ordering for is living with dementia or is in the process of diagnosis, the tracker is Free, you will pay only for the annual monitoring charge.
General information on the GPS trackers:
The Ostrich GPS tracker has been manufactured, adapted and specially configured for Ostrich working alongside a specialist tracking technology company established in 2003 focused upon the provision of GPS tracking and security systems worldwide.
As is the case with most GPS tracking units, its country of manufacture is China.
The tracker response systems are manually configured and tested in the UK before dispatch and all customer details and tracking platforms are held on a secure server in the UK dedicated only to the Ostrich GPS tracking system.
The SIM provider is EE with the highest independently rated network coverage across the UK population.
Is this a life saving device?
No. Having a tracker should not give a false sense of security to anyone prone to wander, get lost or go missing (or to their carers). Having a GPS tracker will enable those responsible for their safety to alert the emergency services through a dedicated specialist monitoring centre available to them 24/7, which could reduce the time taken to locate them.
Are there other costs?
No, you pay only one annual monitoring fee.
Can I pay for a years tracking monitoring and ask you to make it available to someone who needs it?
Yes. We will provide the free tracker and your gift of funding a years monitoring makes this a fully operational unit, as a donated gift. We will pass this wonderful opportunity to the many groups we work with to allocate this generous gift to a user. You will appreciate that for Data reasons we would not be able to inform you exactly who has been chosen, but you will hear directly from the organisation who has selected the user, provided you are happy for us to pass on your details. Such a gift is very warmly welcomed indeed.
Do I need a computer or phone or any other device to activate the tracker or set it up?
No. Absolutely no technical knowledge is needed. All you need to do is make a phone call to a dedicated phone number; we can call you back if that helps, then we do the rest.
Do I need to top up a SIM card or pay extra telephone bills?
No, the annual fee you pay for 24/7 365 tracking is fully covered there is nothing for you to worry about or any extra for you to pay
I have a falls alarm isn’t this the same thing?
No a falls alarm generally works within your home and sometimes your garden. It will not work beyond your home. This GPS tracker can replace your falls alarm and covers you throughout the UK and even worldwide if you have chosen international tracking.
If I go away in the UK do I need to let you know?
No, but we'd always be pleased to get a postcard!
How do I know it's working?
The tracker displays a LED light to indicate it is connected and tracking. The tracker checks it’s self every 30 minutes. If it isn’t working this triggers an alarm in our system. We will contact the user or their next of kin and alert them to the situation. We will also immediately dispatch a courier and replacement tracker at our cost.
How do I charge it?
Just as you would a mobile phone. You can use the regular 3 pin plug or the USB charger which are both provided.
Is it heavy to wear?
It weighs little more than a few 2p coins together and is comparable to the size of a matchbox. It is just heavy enough so you know that you have it, but we provide a lanyard for your immediate ease.
Is it waterproof?
No this tracker is water resident which means you should remove it when showering or bathing. If being waterproof is essential we can provide a different tracker though this may incur a different cost.
How do I know the monitoring centre will track me?
Your safety is paramount to us. You will be monitored by Torbay and Southern Devon Health and Care NHS Trust who work in conjunction with the emergency services and another that monitors falls alarms 24/7. This is an industry accredited monitoring centre. When your device is delivered you will be told which monitoring centre is relevant to you, and where they are. No risks are ever taken with the monitoring centres that will be responsible for tracking you.
Can it go wrong?
Yes, if for any reason the satellite it is attached to fails. This is the case with any tracking device, and the satellite is outside any provider’s control. Cases of failure are extremely rare. Other rare situations may also cause failure, but this is extremely unlikely.
Will it cost more each year for me to be monitored?
We aim to keep costs consistent. You will be contacted at month 9 of your contract to discuss the following year’s tracking costs.
Why are you making them free to certain people? Is there a catch?
We know that giving people independence can often enable them to stay at home amongst family and friends for longer. Having the ability to be found quickly may enable someone to remain safe and at home longer and give peace of mind to their family. The more people that buy our trackers and use all the services that Ostrich offer, the longer we can keep giving trackers away.
Why aren't they free to all physically challenged people?
We know that those living with Dementia pose a risk to themselves and sometimes to others when they wander, as they have little idea they have done so. These trackers are a positive way of finding them and helping them. We are very open to understand and learn about other groups for whom a similar level of support through the trackers would be of value. Please feel free to contact us.
Can I order more than one?
Generally you will only need one as an individual user, if you have a need for multiple trackers please email us at hello@ostrichcare.co.uk and we will be pleased to discuss your exact requirements.
How can I pay for a GPS tracker and monitoring services?
You can pay for the Ostrich GPS tracker and monitoring services securely by PayPal, by credit or debit card or by cheque payable to Menzies 1st floor Midas House, 62 Goldsworth Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 6LQ - please don't forget to state your name, address and phone number to the back of the cheque if you choose this payment option.