print this page
The technology is very cost effective and can range from £4 to £20 per week.
The Government has given local authorities £80 million over the next two years to help local authorities set up programmes. There is a real incentive for local areas to invest in this new technology as it is cheaper in the long term than conventional homecare. Some local authorities have introduced free of telecare services to all residents who need it, while others subsidise services - see 'good practice'
Social Services referrals
Carers may be able to get telecare for free or relatively little if the council agrees to subsidise their package. Carers and the person they care for can be referred to telecare by
• Social services
• Health staff such as community nurses
• Housing officers from district councils and housing associations
The cared for person will then be assessed by either Social Services staff or an Occupational Therapist, and if their needs meet Social Services criteria they could receive the telecare service as part of their care package.
Individual costs
The cost of telecare varies across the UK. A typical council in the North West charges £8.86 per week for telecare. For individuals wanting to buy telecare packages and equipment, there is a vast range of information and products available. more...
Is it widely available?
Telecare varies according to local areas. Only about half of councils have effective services in place.
What training is needed?
councils need to ensure staff are trained properly so that they are able to monitor the sensors, and deliver the appropriate response if an alarm is triggered. dedicated training should also to be given to people using the technology and their carers.
Is it ethical?
There are rightly concerns over how this technology is used. Some people worry that it could replace human services. This is not the aim -it can enable the effective redeployment of staff resources. However there need to be clear safeguards and standards around the use.
