A significant initiative by Blackwood Homes and Care, known as the Peoplehood Project, is making strides in the integration of technology and data into independent living solutions across Scotland. This project aims to deliver transformative benefits for the country's elderly and vulnerable populations.
On a recent visit to the Edinburgh Community Rehabilitation and Support Service, Neil Gray MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care commended the project, which has been developed in partnership with The Data Lab, Scotland's innovation centre focused on data and artificial intelligence. During his visit, Gray was able to witness the innovative technological applications designed to facilitate healthier, independent living conditions.
Launched in 2022 with a funding of £12.5 million, the Peoplehood Project has already engaged over 500 participants in various locations, including Buckie, Dundee, and Glasgow. The three-year initiative has made significant advances by co-designing new independent living models that incorporate advanced assisted technologies alongside essential digital skills training. The primary goal is to enhance participants' quality of life while simultaneously reducing reliance on traditional social care services.
During his tour of a Blackwood Home, Neil Gray noted the importance of integrating technology into everyday lives to support longer independence at home, stating, “The integration of technology into everyday lives is a key requirement in supporting individuals to live well at home for longer, and to support our health and social care services.” He further emphasized the necessity of innovative approaches in delivering social care across Scotland, highlighting that projects like Peoplehood set a precedent for sustainable, person-centred care strategies.
Steph Sutherland, Development and Commercial Director at Blackwood Homes and Care, expressed the project's aspirations: “At Blackwood, our vision is to help people live their lives to the full. The Peoplehood Project has demonstrated the transformative potential of assistive technology in creating homes and communities that support independence.” She also mentioned that the insights garnered from this initiative would guide future independent living strategies to benefit wider communities.
Heather Thomson, Interim CEO of The Data Lab, remarked on the collaboration's potential by stating: “This collaboration demonstrates Scotland’s immense potential for innovation in health and social care. Through the power of data and AI, we are delivering ethical, impactful solutions that benefit communities across the country.”
As the trend of automation and data utilisation in healthcare continues to evolve, the Peoplehood Project stands out as a forward-thinking example of how technology can reshape business practices and improve the living standards of those in need. The emphasis on ethical frameworks and community benefits marks a significant shift towards harnessing emerging technologies for social good in Scotland.
Source: Noah Wire Services