Somerset Independent Living Centres (SILCs) are managed by Somerset Council and offer a range of equipment and technology which can help people live independently at home for longer.
They include kit to help people with personal care, moving around the home, cooking, cleaning, and more. There is also a growing range of technology available, known as Technology Enabled Care.
Technology Enabled Care (TEC) is the general term for a range of products and services which aim to help anyone who may need support to live independently. This could include helping manage health conditions, reducing the risk of falls, or just making daily living tasks easier.
From Alexas that can open curtains, to a ‘robo-cat’ that helps people manage conditions like dementia or anxiety, or even a mechanical bird that encourages those with limited mobility by singing when they walk, SILCs have something for all kinds of needs. The advantage of Technology Enabled Care is that in addition to helping people to stay in the comfort of their own homes. It also means that Somerset Council can allocate appropriate support in areas which cannot be replaced with technology.
Cllr Sarah Wakefield, Lead Member for Adult Social Care at Somerset Council, reflected on a visit to the SILC, saying:
On my recent visit to a SILC I got the chance to view and see demonstrated some of the equipment that is available. I was amazed by the huge selection and the variety available, and by how innovative it all was and is. These really are a wonderful resource which we are so lucky to have in Somerset for our residents.”
“The beauty of being able to come along and try out equipment or technology for yourself (and/or for your family or loved ones) is that, with the help of our supportive Occupational Therapy led service, you have the freedom to explore lots of different options and find a practical solution that is right for you as an individual.”
“I would really encourage anyone who thinks that they might or would benefit from free and practical help to find and try equipment, home adaptations or technology that makes life easier to book a free appointment at one of our Independent Living Centres.”
Find more information about the Somerset Independent Living Centres, which are based in Yeovil, Wellington and Shepton Mallet, or book an appointment here: Equipment to help you (somerset.gov.uk)
