Use technology to help keep you safe and well

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About the Digital Health and Care Technology Service (DHACT)

The Digital Health and Care Technology Service (DHACT) helps adults live more safely, independently and confidently in their own homes.  

It offers personalised technology to support daily routines, manage health needs and provide reassurance for both residents and their families. 

The service is especially helpful for people who: 

  • may forget appointments or medication 
  • have recently been in hospital 
  • live alone 
  • are at risk of falls 
  • feel anxious about managing at home 

It can add extra support to help people stay well and independent for longer, either by itself or alongside other care and support. 

Who is eligible 

The service is for adults aged 18 and over who are being supported by social services with their health and care needs. 

You may be eligible if you: 

  • live in the Royal Borough of Greenwich 
  • receive care or support through adult social care or the NHS 
  • have recently been in hospital or are recovering at home 
  • are supported by a reablement team or Continuing Healthcare team 

What it costs 

If you're eligible for support through adult social care or the NHS, the service is free. This includes the equipment, setup, and ongoing monitoring. You may need to pay for additional support. 

If you're not eligible for free support, you can still choose to access the service through a self-funded option. This costs £6.30 a week and provides an alarm for emergencies in your home. 

How to apply 

You cannot apply for the service directly. A health or social care professional will need to refer you following an assessment.  

This might be a: 

  • social worker 
  • occupational therapist 
  • nurse 
  • someone from your health or care team 

If you do not currently work with any health or social care professionals but think you need more support, you can ask for support with adult health and care.

What happens next 

Once referred, a specialist will assess your needs and recommend the most suitable technology for you. This could include: 

  • devices that give voice reminders for medication, meals or appointments 
  • wearable alarms that detect falls or send an alert if you need help 
  • simple video calling screens to help you stay in contact with family, friends or professionals 
  • motion or activity sensors that help spot changes in your routine 
  • devices that allow you to control lights, heating or plugs by voice  

All equipment is chosen to suit your lifestyle and needs. You'll be given training and support to use the technology with confidence. 

Once a referral is made, you'll be contacted to arrange a visit to your home. 

A trained professional from our technology partner Alcove will install the equipment and explain how it works. You can ask questions, practice using the devices, and receive help if anything is unclear. 

After everything is set up, you'll continue to receive support. If anything stops working or needs adjusting, the team will be there to help. The service is designed to grow and adapt with your needs over time.