Introduction
In a groundbreaking initiative, Red Alert Telecare (RA) and the London Borough of Haringey (Haringey) collaborated to upgrade analogue technology enabled care (TEC) systems to digital solutions for approximately 1,200 residents. This partnership aimed to ensure that older people and vulnerable adults were not left behind by outdated technology, while also demonstrating the potential of innovative solutions to enhance technology-enabled care. The project not only addressed immediate needs but also set a precedent for future advancements in the sector.
Stakeholder Engagement
The success of this project hinged on the effective engagement and collaboration with a range of stakeholders. Each group played a crucial role in ensuring the project’s objectives were met:
- Local Authority: Haringey brought expertise in social care provision and a deep understanding of community needs. Their insights shaped the scope of the transition and ensured that the upgrade process aligned with residents’ best interests. The council’s involvement was pivotal in tailoring the project to meet the specific requirements of the community.
- Residents: Engaging directly with individuals and families was crucial to ensure the digital equipment met their specific needs and desired outcomes. This person-centred approach involved asking service users about their daily routines and safety concerns. By involving residents in the decision-making process, the partnership ensured that the solutions provided were both effective and user-friendly.
- Equipment Suppliers: Haringey and RA collaborated with suppliers Chiptech and Carium to mitigate the risk of stock shortages. Building strong relationships early on secured timely delivery of essential components despite market pressures. This proactive approach to supply chain management was essential in maintaining the project’s timeline and ensuring the availability of high-quality equipment.
Testimonials
“Red Alert worked in partnership with Haringey to successfully deliver our analogue to digital programme to approximately 1200 residents. Their expertise and professionalism was key in developing and delivering the programme in a coordinated and responsive way, helping keep our residents safe.” Caroline Humphrey, Head of Service Improvement and Development at Haringey Council
“Red Alert recognises that achieving planned desired outcomes requires effective collaboration and partnership working. The RA and Haringey teams quickly established an excellent rapport and working relationship, developing a seamless approach to the project. All outcomes were met, and the project was completed on time and under budget. The success of this ambitious project was outstanding and a testament to the focus and commitment of both the Red Alert and Haringey teams. The safety and wellbeing of service users were at the forefront of everyone’s efforts, and feedback further illustrates its success.” Clive Gawler, Managing Director, Red Alert Telecare
Collaboration Approach
The partnership implemented a comprehensive plan covering device selection, installations, and project timelines. Key elements included:
- Strategic Planning: RA and Haringey facilitated clear communication and swift decision-making by meeting twice a week. These regular meetings allowed for the continuous assessment of progress and the prompt resolution of any issues that arose.
- Operational Efficiency: The parties coordinated appointments, recorded on-road activities, and tracked progress, ensuring a streamlined workflow. This meticulous approach to project management ensured that all tasks were completed efficiently and effectively.
- Transparent Monitoring: Haringey accessed real-time project data through an operational dashboard in Power BI, allowing for immediate identification of issues and informed discussion. This transparency was crucial in maintaining trust among all stakeholders and ensuring that the project stayed on track.
Image – Red Alert Telecare Power BI Dash for Haringey (redacted)
Outcomes for People
The project delivered significant benefits for service users, enhancing their safety, reliability, and overall quality of life:
- Enhanced Safety and Reliability: Modernised digital devices offered stronger connectivity, improved battery life, and enhanced service transparency features, giving service users greater peace of mind. These improvements were particularly important for vulnerable individuals who relied on TEC for their safety and well-being.
- Tailored Solutions: By matching the right equipment to each individual’s needs, the partnership ensured that residents received solutions best suited to their daily lives. This personalised approach maximised the effectiveness of the TEC services provided.
- Inclusive Transition: Clear communication with residents, swift installations, and user-friendly devices helped people adapt with confidence and reduced anxiety around change. The partnership’s commitment to minimising disruption was evident in their careful planning and execution of the transition process.
Building Trust and Confidence
The partnership substantially boosted confidence in technology-enabled care across multiple groups, including commissioners, professionals, and service users:
- Enhancement of the TEC Agenda: The project served as a beacon of good practice for other local authorities and care providers, raising the profile of TEC in Haringey and beyond. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of large-scale TEC digitalisation, the partnership set a new standard for the industry.
- Showcasing Innovation: Using an integrated dashboard and advanced scheduling software, the partnership set a new industry benchmark for efficient oversight and deployment of TEC solutions. This innovative approach to project management and monitoring was instrumental in the project’s success.
- Increased Choice and Control: Offering devices from more than one supplier allowed service users to benefit from a range of features, tailoring the technology to different health conditions and personal requirements. This flexibility empowered users to make informed decisions about their care.
- Improvement of Care: Regular engagement between commissioners, RA staff, and Haringey Council professionals fostered mutual trust and proactive problem-solving. This collaborative approach ensured that any challenges were addressed promptly and effectively.
Achieved Outcomes and Wider Impact
The project delivered significant benefits, confirming the value of strategic partnership working in TEC:
- Successful Completion: 100% of eligible TEC upgrades were carried out on time and within budget. This achievement demonstrated the partnership’s ability to manage a large-scale project efficiently.
- Improved Data Accuracy: The transition offered an opportunity to verify user information and remove inactive cases from the system, supporting more reliable service delivery and future planning. This data cleansing process was essential in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the TEC services provided.
- Visible Cost Efficiencies: The streamlined process and collaborative approach helped reduce duplication of effort and avoid costly delays, meaning the project was delivered 31% under budget. These cost savings can be reinvested into ongoing or future TEC initiatives, further enhancing the quality of care provided.
Increased Uptake of TEC
The partnership’s success has prompted discussions on replicating the digital upgrade model, driving wider adoption of TEC solutions at a regional level. Positive feedback from service users and tangible safety benefits increases the likelihood that more people in need of support will opt for TEC. This increased uptake of TEC solutions has the potential to significantly improve the quality of care provided to vulnerable individuals.
Scalability and Future Planning
The partnership’s methodology can be easily scaled to other local authorities, offering a robust process for addressing supply chain challenges, scheduling, and stakeholder engagement. The success in Haringey paves the way for further upgrades and expansions of TEC across multiple service areas. This scalable model provides a roadmap for other local authorities looking to implement similar projects.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Red Alert Telecare and Haringey Council showcases how purposeful engagement, transparency, and shared expertise can transform TEC services for the benefit of vulnerable communities. The trust, understanding, and confidence built in this partnership—alongside quantifiable results—demonstrate the remarkable potential of TEC to raise care standards, encourage independence, and positively impact wider networks in health, housing, and social care. This case study serves as a testament to the power of strategic partnerships in driving innovation and improving outcomes in the technology-enabled care sector.
