'Pioneering' telecare system helps Gwynedd's older residents

Published by Hannah Wooderson for 24dash.com in Communities

A year on since launching the Gwynedd Telecare system, more than 400 of the county’s older and vulnerable residents are able to live independently in their own homes with the help of innovative electronic sensors.

That was the clear message in a telecare conference held by Gwynedd Council and its partners in Caernarfon where more than 50 frontline staff had the chance to look back on the successes of the scheme across the county, and to consider how the provision can be developed.

Gwen Carrington, Head of Gwynedd Council’s Social Services said: “We know from experience and regular research that vulnerable people in our communities want to live independently in their own homes if that is possible, and to retain control on their own independence.

“Gwynedd Council is very proud that our pioneering telecare system means that we can meet the needs of older people and vulnerable residents. The system here in Gwynedd offers a truly innovative service in the field and gives our vulnerable residents the confidence they need to live independently in their homes, knowing that help is always at hand.”

The Gwynedd Telecare projects allows older and vulnerable people across the county to live in their own homes with the reassurance that support is available 24 hours a day, giving peace of mind for carers, as well as helping professional carers to improve the quality and effectiveness of the service they deliver in the home.

In the conference, audience members from various agencies heard from leading consultants in the telecare field, as well as having an opportunity to see some of the resources which are available.

There was also an opportunity to hear more about the latest technology from representatives of local company, “T-cubed” who specialise in the field.

Councillor John Wyn Williams, Gwynedd Council’s Older People’s Champion added:
“With a population which is getting older, it is essential that we make use of new and advances schemes to provide care of the highest standard and a modern service which meets the needs of vulnerable residents.

“What is so important about initiatives like telecare is that they can use technology in order to ensure that the care provided to the individual has been tailored specifically to their needs. The aim of telecare is to improve the quality of life for the individual and making sure that they can live more safely whilst also ensuring that their independence is respected.”

The telecare project here in Gwynedd has been supported by Gwynedd Council and a number of other partners which include Gofal a Thrwsio, the Gwynedd Local Health Board, the Health Trust, Gofal Môn and voluntary groups such as Age Concern and Carers Outreach Service.