READ: Case Studies – Assistive Technologies
Adult Social Services has worked in partnership with ABUHB, Tai Calon Community Housing and the Community Housing Group to develop a Smart Flat in Blaenau Gwent which was officially launched in November. The Smart Flat has been created to provide an opportunity for individuals, families, carers and professionals to view the different types of new and emerging technologies available to them and how they can help people to live independently in their own home.
Check out what’s been installed in the flat for yourself by taking a virtual tour here. the website provides an interactive 3D view around the Smart Flat which will enable you to find out more about each product just by clicking on the information buttons.
We have been overwhelmed with positive responses from our visitors to the Smart Flat. As well as staff from across the Health & Social Care sector we also saw our MS Alun Davies, the Director of Social Services, the Executive Member for People and Social Services, local Councillors along with partners from Tai Calon Community Housing, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and many more.
Everyone was very impressed with the technologies in the flat especially the home automation which allows voice commands (via Alexa) to close windows and curtains as well as turning on lights and vacuuming the room. The Sensory Room was also popular, this provides a range of stimuli through a range of lights and colours as well as dementia therapy equipment such as therapy cats and HUGS.
Councillor Trollope commented he was very impressed with the range of technology on show at the Smart Flat. “By simply giving an Alexa device a few simple commands the flat was hoovered, lights were switched on, windows and curtains opened and closed. I can see this benefitting many people within our communities in the near future.”
The Director of Social Services commented “we want to support the people of Blaenau Gwent to remain in their own homes and be as independent as possible. The technology on show at the smart flat will support many people to do just that.”
Alun Davies AM gave his thanks to the team for taking the time to demonstrate the assisted technology at the Smart Flat on Friday. Alan says: “It was great to see the work being undertaken by the Council and partners on this and to learn about the use of technology in this way and I can’t wait to have a go of the interactive website to learn more about the products.”
Damien McCann, the Council’s Interim Chief Executive says: “A very important objective we aim to deliver as part of the council’s corporate plan is to ensure Blaenau Gwent Council works in partnership to provide high quality services to meet local need, and improve the quality of life and well-being within the community. I would like to give thanks to all those involved in making this project a big success and hope to see a good take up of the services and devices on offer.”
If you would like to make an enquiry please give us a call on 01495 315700 or email Christopher.Sainsbury@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk
Smart Flat Launch Photo Montage PDF