Cyngor Gwynedd leads the way with technology to support independence at home

Cyngor Gwynedd has invested in new technology that could transform the way support is provided to people receiving domiciliary care across the county.

Through collaboration between the Council's Adults, Health and Well-being Department and the Housing and Property Department, ten 'Lilli' systems have been installed in homes across Gwynedd where individuals receive care support from the Council.

The system uses sensors in the home to check patterns such as mobility and temperature remotely. This enables social workers, carers and the family to understand what is routinely happening on a day-to-day basis at home, and to prepare if things change.

Lilli will be used to support adults with a range of social care needs to live safely at home, and to help prevent hospital admissions. This aims to improve the provision of care for adults who are at high risk of hospital admission, and at the same time free up capacity, as rising demand continues to put significant pressure on services.

Councillor Dilwyn Morgan, Cyngor Gwynedd's Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Well-being, said:

"Piloting systems such as Lilli shows our commitment to trying to work more proactively, and to think outside the box. It enables us to respond to a situation early on, before someone falls and needs to be admitted to hospital, for example. This ultimately helps us to support the residents of Gwynedd to live independently and safely in our communities in the long term."

"Lilli is a good way to draw families and carers into conversations about individuals' needs and care – it can offer peace of mind as they can access the information via an app on a phone or tablet, and the evidence Lilli gathers can provide a foundation for a conversation between social workers and families."

Dylan Owen, Statutory Director of Social Services, Cyngor Gwynedd, added:

"The Llechen Lân report has highlighted current and future challenges in terms of social care here in Gwynedd, and as a result we have set about piloting a new innovative system. The system allows us to understand more about the real needs of individuals, and provides valuable insight into patterns in the home, both strengths and risks.

"Using the system will allow early intervention and help support people who depend on care in a more holistic way and increase their independence and quality of life.

"We anticipate that as the programme grows, we will be able to completely rethink how certain aspects of care are delivered across the county."

If you would like to discuss Lilli and the possibility of piloting the technology yourself or for a family member/friend, please contact your/their social worker to discuss this. Social workers will refer suitable individuals forward for the pilot.