Relay UK: How to Get Emergency Help When You Can’t Speak

At Childs Vision, we are dedicated to supporting child victims of domestic abuse, offering them a lifeline when they need it most. We understand that sometimes, reaching out for help isn’t easy, especially if you don’t feel safe speaking up. That’s why we want to introduce you to the Relay UK app and emergency SMS text service. These essential tools enable you to contact emergency services discreetly via text or in-app, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

Using Text: EmergencySMS

In some challenging situations, discretion is of utmost importance. If you are concerned about someone discovering an app on your phone, the text service provided by Relay UK offers a discreet and secure lifeline.

To use emergencySMS, follow these steps:

  • 1. Register Your Mobile: Text the word ‘register’ to 999. You’ll need to re-register if you change your phone number.

  • 2. Read the Message: You’ll receive an automatic text reply. Please read it carefully.

  • 3. Reply to the Message: Respond by texting ‘yes’.

  • 4. Get a ‘Success’ Text: You’ll receive a text confirming your mobile is registered.

  • 5. Check It: Text ‘register’ to 999 to verify your registration. If you can’t register, contact your mobile provider to ensure they support the EmergencySMS service.

In an emergency, Relay UK suggest that you use EmergencySMS to contact the emergency services only if you’ve no other option. This is because it will take longer than both the standard voice 999 service and the 18000 service via the Relay UK app. Read on to find instructions on how to download and set up the app.

Downloading the App

If you’re in an emergency, help may arrive sooner if you contact the emergency services via the Relay UK app than via the Emergency SMS service. Getting started with the Relay UK app is straightforward. Here are the steps to register:

  • 1. Download the App: You can download the Relay UK app for iOS devices, the Relay UK Desktop app for Mac computers from Apple’s App Store, or get Relay UK for Android devices from the Google Play Store. For Windows 10 PCs, it’s available on the Microsoft Store.

  • 2. Link Your Number: When you first open the app, you’ll need to link your phone number so the app can connect to your calls. Follow the instructions within the app to link your number.
  • 3. Choose Your Communication Preference: You can select from three options to communicate:

    • I’ll be typing and reading
    • I’ll be typing and hearing
    • I’ll be speaking and reading
  • 4. Back up & Restore Your Data: You can back up your favourite phrases, Relay preferences, and save calls to your cloud account. This ensures you can restore your data if you change devices or need to reinstall the app later.

  • 5. Completed: You’re now ready to go.

Contacting 999 In the Relay UK App

When using the Relay UK app to contact emergency services, follow these steps:

  • 1. In the Relay UK app, tap the 999 button and confirm to make an emergency call or call 18000 on your phone’s dialer.
  • 2. Click ‘Join’ in the app window when prompted.
  • 3. You’ll connect to 999 and a Relay Assistant.
  • 4. Tell them which service you need and follow their replies in the app’s conversation window.
  • 5. The 999 Operator will connect you to the appropriate emergency service.

What to Put in Your Text (Emergency SMS & Relay UK App)

When texting in an emergency, provide the following information:

  • The service you need: ambulance, police, fire, or coastguard.

  • Details about the emergency.

  • The precise location, including the road name, town, house number, landmarks, or main roads.

Remember, don’t assume your message has been delivered until you receive a reply, which may take a couple of minutes. If you don’t get a response, call 18000 (if possible), or ask someone to call 999 on your behalf.

Supporting Victims of Domestic Abuse

At Childs Vision, we are dedicated to helping those who have witnessed or been affected by domestic abuse. The Relay UK app is an incredible resource that may act as your lifeline when you’re in need. Don’t hesitate to download and register your device today, knowing that you’re prepared and supported, no matter the circumstances. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.