Dubai sets up 24/7 hotline, video call app to protect people of determination

Dubai - The app, called CDA Sanad Relay, also translates sign language into text.

People of determination in Dubai can now easily report any complaint by dialling 800988 or through an app that allows them to use sign language in a video call, the emirate's Community Development Authority (CDA) announced on Monday.
The app, called CDA Sanad Relay, also translates sign language into text, so those with hearing impairments and speech difficulties can use it to communicate with others who may not understand the language.
Sanad Relay and the 24/7 call centre 800988 are part of the CDA's integrated system to protect people of determination. Their caregivers, families and friends or anyone in the community can also use both the app and the hotline to contact authorities.
"Immediately upon receiving the report of any abuse, neglect or potential exploitation, the protection team of the CDA studies the case, investigates the facts, and examines its severity. If necessary, it will be handled in cooperation with other entities and authorities," said Huraiz A Mur Bin Huraiz, CEO of the  development and social care sector of the CDA.
The system's launch comes as part of the CDA's efforts to complete an all-encompassing protection system for people of determination. It was a project that had been put together in coordination with other local government entities, including the Dubai Police, public prosecution, Dubai Courts, Dubai Health Authority, Al Amal Hospital and private accommodation centres in the emirate. 
Besides receiving complaints and notifications, the integrated system also helps people of determination apply for CDA services seamlessly, said Mariam Al Hammadi, director of the senior citizens department at the CDA.
Protection specialists have been identified and trained to attend to the needs of the community, she added.
The Sanad Relay app is available for download for on iOS, the Android platform and Google Play.

• Dubai