The City of Wolverhampton Council is launching its new Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Service, following a highly successful pilot programme.
It will help residents access innovative technology that provides everyday support, enabling them to live the independent lives they want.
The council has commissioned tech supplier Alcove to deliver the service over the next 2 years, while a long term partnership offer for the city is developed.
The new service will provide people with a wide range of TEC products tailored to their eligible care needs, such as sensor devices and voice activated wireless technologies including fall detectors, smart speakers and video doorbells, and remote monitoring sensors.
Adult Social Care staff will be given help to ensure they are able to identify the most suitable technology for each service user, and that they are able to embed TEC into everyday practice.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “This is an exciting step forward for adult social care in Wolverhampton.
“Technology Enabled Care has the power to transform lives – helping people remain independent, safe, and connected, while giving families peace of mind.
“Its launch coincides with the development of our new Early Support offer, which recognises the potential of TEC to prevent, reduce, and delay the escalation of care needs – and, by embedding TEC into our care offer, we are not only supporting individuals today but also building a more sustainable and person centred approach for the future.”
One of those who took part in the pilot was Maureen from Wolverhampton. She had difficulties with her memory, which made everyday life more challenging. Her daughter Sarah said: “I’m so pleased with the service. I can truly see the difference it has made to my mum.
“For me, it’s been life changing; I feel so much more at ease knowing there’s support in place. I no longer have to worry constantly, and I can focus on spending quality time with Mum instead of feeling stressed all the time. It’s given us peace of mind we didn’t think was possible.”
The TEC Service builds on Wolverhampton’s pioneering work with West Midlands 5G (WM5G), which has already demonstrated how digital tools such as fall detectors, voice activated devices, and remote monitoring sensors can improve quality of life.
As the council continues to develop the TEC offer within the Early Support offer, access to the TEC service will initially be limited to individuals who meet the Care Act eligibility criteria for care and support. People who do not meet the threshold will be supported to explore TEC independently or through a range of national providers and online marketplaces.