Preparing for 'What If' Moments: Kishiwada City Social Welfare Council Launches Key Deposit Service with Community Collaboration

Kishiwada City Social Welfare Council, in collaboration with local residents and specialized agencies, has launched a 'Key Deposit Service' to ensure that elderly people living alone can live safely in their familiar communities, preparing for emergencies.

With the increasing number of elderly people living alone, concerns about 'what if they fall at home' and inquiries about welfare checks have been on the rise. This initiative addresses regional issues by having diverse local entities collaborate to build a safety net.

■ Implementation Details and Community Collaboration Framework

The application process was conducted with the full cooperation of local welfare commissioners, neighborhood associations, comprehensive support centers, and Ikikiri Network consultation support centers.

Application Process: Applications were received from 14 individuals.

Key Verification: After the application process, social welfare council staff and welfare commissioners formed pairs to visit each applicant's home to carefully verify that the keys could actually unlock the doors.

Later, the precious keys that were deposited will be taken to 'Koufuku-sou' for safekeeping and strict management.

■ Participants and Stakeholders' Voices

[Applicant (Elderly Living Alone) Voices]

'I was worried about what would happen if something happened when I started living alone. I am truly grateful because there was no such system before, and it is very helpful.'

'It's free, so I can use it with peace of mind.'

[Comprehensive Support Center Staff Voices]

'The number of elderly people living alone is increasing in our jurisdiction, and we have been receiving many inquiries about welfare checks. This initiative will enable us to respond quickly in emergencies, which is very reassuring for us as regional specialists.'

■ Future Prospects

This initiative not only involves 'depositing keys' but also strengthens community ties and the network of care through the application and visit processes. Kishiwada City Social Welfare Council will continue to closely collaborate with the administration, local residents, and specialized agencies to promote the creation of a safe and secure community for everyone.

■ Inquiries Regarding This Matter

Organization Name: Kishiwada City Social Welfare Council

Contact Person: Okafuji Masaki (Regional Welfare Division)

TEL: 072-430-3366

Email: vc@Kishiwadashisyakyo.onmicrosoft.com

Scene of application reception being conducted at the neighborhood association hall