Posted on Thursday 13th July 2023
Julia Jessel with library officer Phi Arnold.
A new community resource brimming with assistive technology and daily living aids to promote independent living has been launched.
Staffordshire County Council is casting a spell in its communities by unveiling a magical new initiative called the 'Bag of Trix.’
The 'Bag of Trix', produced as part of the council's Supportive Communities programme is now available at every Community Help Point across Staffordshire. It’s designed to demonstrate the range of low-cost, user-friendly gadgets available that can assist with everything from dressing and personal hygiene to medication management and meal preparation. These are tasks that most people take for granted but can be a daunting challenge for some residents.
Julia Jessel, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Care, said:
Many people with daily living needs are unaware of the magic that assistive technology gadgets and products can bring to their lives.
Our 'Bag of Trix' initiative is a fantastic way to showcase these resources in a hands-on manner, in familiar environments, and by our trusted and friendly community help point staff."
Community Help Points, another successful initiative from Staffordshire County Council, are trusted locations within communities, including libraries, voluntary organisations, and community centres. They have become a reliable source of local information and guidance for many residents, particularly those at risk of social isolation.
Located across all of Staffordshire, the points offer friendly and approachable staff who can share local knowledge and information. They assist residents in accessing information about local services or activities, boosting their confidence in using the internet, identifying where to access equipment and technology to facilitate daily living, and much more.
The 'Bag of Trix' is now the newest resource available at Community Help Points.
Residents who are interested in exploring the 'Bag of Trix' at their local Staffordshire Community Help Point, or those who require further assistance with daily living equipment, can call Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010 and ask to be put in touch with their nearest Community Help Point.
Alternatively they can visit: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/communityhelppoints