Giving a neighbour a spare key: a simple home entry plan

Here is a scenario that nobody likes to think about. You fall at home and cannot get up. Someone notices something is wrong and comes to check. They knock. They ring. Nobody answers. And the door is locked.

A home entry plan is the answer to "what happens next?" It takes ten minutes to set up, and it is one of the most useful things you can do if you live alone.

Choose your key holder

The best key holder is someone you trust who lives close enough to come quickly. Often that is:

• A neighbour you know well.
• A family member or friend in the same town.
• The person who holds your power of attorney, if they live nearby.

Two key holders is better than one. People go on holiday, get sick, or are at work. Having a second person means someone is usually around.

Ideally, your key holders are also near the top of your emergency contact list. If you use MyDailyCheck, put them first in your Care Circle. See how to choose your emergency contacts.

Where to keep a spare key

The safest place for a spare key is with a person, not hidden outside. A key under the mat, in a flowerpot or above the door frame is the first place a burglar looks.

Some people use a key lockbox: a small locked box mounted near the door that opens with a code. It can make sense if you have several helpers, or a home-care worker who visits. If you go this way:

• Mount it somewhere not obvious from the street.
• Only share the code with people who need it.
• Change the code if someone no longer needs it.
• Check with your home insurer if you are unsure how they view key storage.

Write down the simple details

Your key holder may be in a hurry and a bit worried when they arrive. A few notes help a lot:

• Which door. "Use the back door. The lock sticks, so give the key a jiggle."
• Which key. "The brass key on the red ring."
• Alarms. Is there a security system, and what is the code?
• Pets. Is there a dog that might be upset by a stranger?
• Where you might be. "My bedroom is upstairs at the back."
• Who to call. Your family's numbers, and your doctor if relevant.

Give a copy to each key holder, and keep one by your phone. Our page on entry details for your Care Circle has a short checklist.

Agree on what they should do

Have a short conversation with your key holder. It is easier now than in the moment. Something like:

1. Try calling me on my phone first.
2. If I don't answer, come over and knock.
3. If I still don't answer, let yourself in.
4. If you find me hurt or unwell, call 911 first, then call my family.

Keep the plan up to date

Once a year, check that your key holders still live close by and are still happy to help. If someone moves away, ask for the key back. If you change your locks, give new keys to the people who need them.