A pilot scheme using voice-activated technology to help socially isolated residents in rural Staffordshire stay connected and live more independently has been hailed as a success.
Staffordshire County Council has been running the assistive technology pilot in partnership with Staffordshire Moorlands and South Staffordshire district councils in both areas over the last six months.
It’s part of the county council’s wider commitment to using digital innovation to improve lives and deliver more inclusive services.
Smart devices have been provided to people at risk of digital exclusion or loneliness, helping them stay in touch with others, access information and support their wellbeing.
WATCH: Fred and daughter Janice explain how the smart device has helped to keep them connected.
The pilot uses voice-activated smart speaker devices, managed on a remote platform. Devices offer access to news, reminders, entertainment, and video calls – all tailored to individual needs and preferences. Unlike an off-the-shelf device, devices are pre-configured and centrally managed, meaning no technical setup is required by the user and on-screen content can be tailored to the individual's needs.
The scheme aims to:
- Reduce social isolation and loneliness
- Improve digital confidence and inclusion
- Support healthy routines through reminders and wellbeing prompts for things like medication and hydration
- Enhance access to local services and community events
One resident said: “I love it. It’s better than a mobile and really helps as I have arthritis in my hands and I don’t have to hit any keys or touch anything.”
Another said: “This is a gamechanger for my daughter as it gives her peace of mind.”
A full evaluation will assess the impact of the 12-month pilot when it ends and could then be rolled out to other areas.
Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Connectivity, said:
We’re always looking at new and innovative ways to support our residents, especially those in more rural or isolated communities. This pilot is a great example of how digital technology can make a real difference to people’s lives.
The feedback from those involved has been fantastic and is invaluable to our team in shaping the scheme moving forward.
It’s our priority to make sure that all our residents – wherever they live in the county and whatever their needs or age – can lead independent, fulfilling lives as no-one should be isolated in today’s society. This project is about giving people the tools and confidence to stay connected and lead happy, healthy lives at home for as long as possible.”
Karen Riley, customer engagement team manager, welfare services at South Staffordshire Council, said:
It’s been truly rewarding to witness the significant changes these devices have brought about in the lives of those we support. Perhaps most importantly, these devices have given families a genuine sense of peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are safer and more connected.
I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with team members to identify vulnerable adults who could benefit from our device initiative. Together, we've not only provided these devices to those in need but have also supported them in developing and expanding the services these devices can offer.
Thank you to everyone who has been involved in making this progress possible. I look forward to continuing our efforts and seeing even greater positive impacts in the community.”
