Royal Greenwich to introduce new care technology service to help residents stay independent

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is launching the first of its kind Digital Health and Care Technology Service to help residents stay safe, well, and independent at home with the support of simple digital tools. 

From April 2025, this innovative new service will bring familiar and easy-to-use technology into people’s homes, offering extra support, peace of mind, and early help when needed. Whether it’s a video doorbell to check who’s at the door, a voice assistant to set medication reminders, or a tablet for video calls with family and carers, the aim is to use technology to transform people’s everyday lives, making it easier and safer to live independently.  

This fully integrated joint initiative between the council and local NHS services is part of a wider plan to modernise and improve health and social care in Royal Greenwich. Research shows that when people get the right support at home, they recover more quickly, stay healthier for longer, and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. 

The service has been shaped with the help of local residents, carers, and health professionals to make sure it works for the people who need it most, and it has been developed using our strength-based approach to adult social care. This approach focuses on the well-being of our residents and what’s important to them, by understanding their abilities and potential as well as their needs, explores the benefits of equipment and new technology, and provides support that promotes wellbeing and empowers residents to live independently.  

The new service will introduce simple, practical technology that supports residents in everyday life, including: 

• Smart home monitoring – discreet sensors and devices such as video doorbells and motion detectors to provide reassurance, detect falls, and spot changes in routine.
• Remote health monitoring – using easy-to-use devices like tablets to keep in touch with health professionals and manage long-term conditions from home.
• Personalised digital tools – voice assistants to set reminders for medication, daily tasks, and appointments.
• Early support and prevention – using smart technology to identify potential health concerns sooner, so the right help can be provided quickly. 

The service is designed for people of all ages who could benefit from a bit of extra support – whether they have a learning or physical disability, are recovering from a hospital stay, at risk of falls, living with dementia, or just want more reassurance at home. 

Local people have played a key role in shaping this service. Over the past 18 months, more than 250 residents, carers, and professionals have shared their experiences to help make sure the service meets real needs. It has been designed with residents, for residents. 

Gaynor, a resident who took part in co-producing the service, said: 

“For me, what stands out about care technology is its potential to enhance independence and quality of life, especially for individuals who may face barriers to accessing traditional forms of care.” 

“It can empower people to live more independently, stay connected to their loved ones, and access support and services when needed. I hope that care technology can create a more inclusive and supportive environment where people feel valued and capable of managing their health and wellbeing in a way that feels natural to them.” 

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care, and Borough of Sanctuary said: 

"This is all about making life easier for people in Royal Greenwich. Whether someone needs a little extra support after coming out of hospital, reassurance for their family, or help with daily tasks, digital tools like video doorbells, voice assistants, and tablets can make a big difference.” 

“As set out in Mission 1 of Our Greenwich, we want people's health to support them in living their best life. Our goal is to help people feel more confident and in control of their own care." 

The Healthier Greenwich Partnership brings together partners from the NHS, local council, social care, and the community and voluntary sector to support more integrated services for residents.  

Iain Dimond, Chair of the Healthier Greenwich Partnership, said: 

"We want people in Royal Greenwich to get the support they need at home, rather than always relying on hospitals or emergency services. These digital solutions are practical, easy to use, and can really help people stay independent and connected." 

To make sure everyone feels confident using these new tools, local health and care professionals will be supported with: 

• Hands-on training to help them understand and use the technology.
• A Digital Champions programme, where trained staff can help their colleagues and residents.
• Ongoing support so professionals can confidently introduce digital options to those who might benefit. 

By introducing simple digital tools, The Royal Borough of Greenwich is helping residents live independently for longer, giving carers and families extra peace of mind, and making sure health and care services are there for those who need them most. 

If you’d like to find out more about the Digital Health and Care Technology Service, please visit our website.

This is a joint initiative between the council and Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, South-East London Integrated Care Board (ICB), Rethink Partners, and trusted technology provider Alcove.