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Local MP Andrew Jones Visits Greenfield Court in Harrogate to See How Telecare is Improving Peoples Lives
On Friday 23 July, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, Andrew Jones visited Greenfield Court Supporting Housing Scheme in Harrogate, and was able to see for himself the impact telecare was having on the lives of residents.
After being greeted by Sue Ullmann CE of Harrogate Neighbours who is responsible for the scheme, Derek Law, Corporate Director of adult and community services at North Yorkshire County Council went on to describe the approach taken by the council to embed telecare into its care service provision.
Mr Law explained: "Telecare ticks many boxes. For the person using the technology it provides choice, dignity, empowerment and independence. For the carer or family member it offers reassurance and peace of mind 24 hrs a day. For the council it offers cost effective, person centred care. For the health service, it enables earlier discharge, reductions in hospital admissions and a more joined up service with social care."
NYCC is leading the way nationally through the use of assistive technology. A recent evaluation of its telecare programme demonstrated over a £1million net savings in the first year of the programme, whilst at the same time, a satisfaction survey showed that telecare had helped 95% of users feel safer and had given them confidence and peace of mind.
Mr Jones had the opportunity to talk to residents who were overwhelming in their praise for the technology and living at the scheme. He then visited the smart flat which enabled him to understand that telecare really kept families together, rather than on occasions meaning a loved one had to move into care.
He added: "It has really opened my eyes to the possibilities for telecare in helping many people with diverse needs stay safe and independent at home. I was really impressed by the team and the joined up working between the council, the districts and the housing providers to make this whole operation a success."
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