You’re probably reading this article on a laptop or mobile device. We use technology routinely across most areas of our lives now. But for many people, technology can be a barrier to the wider community, as well as a welcome lifeline. While tech devices can support people to access care, support and social connection, a lack of awareness and understanding of what’s available and how to use tech can be a real hurdle.

Now, a new project, being trialled as part of our Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HSCP) Maximising Independence approach, will help people who feel they just don’t ‘get technology,’ take the first step.

Michael Gillespie, Principal Officer within our HSCP’s Older People Planning and Transformation Team explained: “Familiar technical devices, such as alarms, sensors and health monitors can give great extra support for people, helping them to maximise their independence. But barriers to digital inclusion such as the cost of purchasing equipment readily available on the high street, fear about security, lack of awareness about the benefits, availability of devices and the skills to use them, can prevent people from getting the most out of commercially available technology that could really help them. 

“So we want to support people, their families and carers to familiarise themselves with the equipment through some very practical hands-on help.”

The Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Clinics Project is working with partner agencies including Alzheimer’s Scotland’s Adam project , Glasgow Life Libraries and AbilityNet with the aim of providing digital support not only to the people who already use our services, and their families and staff who support them, but to the general public of all ages in Glasgow. 

As well as helping with day-to-day tasks like switching on lights and making phone calls at the touch of one button, there are readily available tools that can help people stay safe inside and outside their home, such as movement and temperature sensors, alarms and reminders. 

The clinics will be delivered through Glasgow Life libraries and third sector organisations, offering advice and support on devices, including smart phones and tablets. There will also be information on how they access equipment and apps that can support health and care such as medication prompts and how to stay connected to their friends, families and carers. The team at the clinics will also help to identify and signpost people to appropriate tech solutions and support that’s readily available on the consumer market. 

As well as helping people maintain their independence at home, devices can flag up health and wellbeing issues earlier, so that support can be given at the earliest stage if needed and people can stay out of hospital wherever possible. In some cases, tech devices can help people who have been diagnosed with a long term condition such as diabetes, COPD and heart disease to improve their understanding and maintain their wellbeing. 

So far, six libraries across Glasgow will host the TEC Clinics, in Maryhill, Partick, Royston, Springburn, Castlemilk and Pollok, beginning early in 2024.

Look out for more information coming soon at Your Support Your Way Glasgow and for more information, email michael.gillespie@glasgow.gov.uk or chris.furse@glasgow.gov.uk.