Adult social care tech trial shortlisted for award

Smart sensors, fall prevention tech and virtual care calls have been used by social workers and other teams

A technology-led pilot project within adult social care in Wolverhampton has been nominated for an award.

Residents, carers, social workers and partners in the city have been trialling fall- prevention technologies, smart sensors and virtual care calls in everyday social care practice, the council said.

The scheme has resulted in a shift from "traditional, reactive care models to a personalised, preventative digital care system", City of Wolverhampton Council said.

The government-funded project has been used with more than 170 residents who have given positive feedback, the council said.

As a result, the council and the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust be shortlisted for a Health Service Journal (HSJ) Award.

The WM5G Technology Enabled Care (TEC) trial has been rolled out by OneWolverhampton – a partnership between the council, the trust and other groups.

It has been funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the 5G Innovation Region scheme.

Many patients who have used the system reported having increased independence and an improved quality of life, the council said.

OneWoverhampton has also been sharing its work with others with the aim of other regions trialling it.

'They transform lives'

Paula Brookfield, cabinet member for adults, said: "We're proud to be recognised for our work to embed digital care into the heart of our social care system.

"This shortlisting is testament to the dedication of our teams and the power of working together.

"We've shown that when digital tools are thoughtfully integrated, they don't just support care, they transform lives."

Stephanie Cartwright, chief community and partnerships officer for the trust and a OneWolverhampton Board member, said the nomination was "fantastic news"

The trial is one of 245 projects and people shortlisted for an HSJ award, the council said, and the winners would be announced at a ceremony in London in November.