The City of Wolverhampton Council has teamed up with West Midlands 5G (WM5G) to show how ‘Technology Enabled Care’ (TEC) can improve the lives of hundreds of city residents.

Sensor devices and voice activated wireless technologies including fall detectors, Alexas, Ring doorbells and remote monitoring sensors, are being used in people’s homes to support individual care needs.

Alcove, the TEC supplier, is installing the devices on behalf of the council while Rethink Partners will carry out an evaluation of the project.  

The technology will provide reminders and predict support requirements, utilising mobile connectivity if broadband is not available.

As part of a wider ‘care community’ comprising those in receipt of social care, their families, councils and partners, TEC will enable people to live more independently and enhance their quality of life.

The trial programme is funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the 5G Innovation Region scheme and focuses on eligible care and support needs of 3 groups - people aged 65 and over, people with learning disabilities and people with physical disabilities.

More than 100 referrals have already been made in Wolverhampton, with the aim of reaching 350 adults in the city by March 2025, before potentially being rolled out further.

Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “By enabling people to live independently and stay in their homes longer, assisted living technologies can enhance lives, reduce pressure on social care staff and tackle the rising cost of social care.

“This initiative has the potential to revolutionise the way we do things harnessing technology to provide improved, personalised care for people.”

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the council’s Cabinet Member for Digital and Community, added: “The council is driven by digital to improve care and other services though innovation and partnership work and the city is at the forefront of the full fibre and 5G rollout that makes this possible.

“This is a great example of how technology can be put to good use helping those who need it most.”

One of those already taking part in the project in Wolverhampton is Diane.

She said: “Having this technology installed in my home has been a true blessing.

“I feel more independent than ever because I can go about my day without constantly worrying and also knowing my family feel so assured by this support really empowers me.

“It gives me peace of mind, and that is truly priceless.”