Our Impact Using Technology: 2022-23

Showcasing how technology can enhance lives

This year, we’ve helped people to understand how technology can improve their daily lives, by organising two events for people in the community to attend.

At the events in Cardiff and Swansea, technology providers showcased their devices and services to the people we support, our staff and other organisations.

Each technology provider who attended made their exhibition stand fully interactive, which gave people the opportunity to get lots of hands on experience with the technology on offer.

Sorin, Digital Inclusion Coordinator at mirus said:

This feedback will help technology providers to make adjustments and improvements to their products for the future.

We hope that by continuing to provide opportunities for people to experiment with technology, even more people will feel confident in using technology to enhance their lives in future.

The technology providers were fantastic at answering questions, and offered lots of solutions about how each device could be adapted to fulfil each person’s needs.

As a result, people told us that they felt informed about which technologies were right for them, and felt more confident and empowered to make decisions about what they should use at home.

Because people were able to explore technology in person it became less daunting. Everyone was excited about how technology could have a positive impact in their lives.

By interacting with the people we support, the technology providers were able to gather essential feedback about their services.

Keeping in touch with friends and family

People who are supported by mirus at Park Road in Swansea were offered the opportunity to receive a tablet on loan from First Choice Housing Association, and essential training to support them to use it.

The tablets were initially offered during lockdown, when the ability to use video calls and instant messaging was essential to bridge the physical distance between friends and family.

Although lockdown is now over, the tablets remain an excellent way for people to stay connected with their loved ones inbetween in person visits, and help people to receive vital support from their friends and family when they need it.

Many essential appointments with GPs and hospitals have also been changed to video call, a trend which is set to continue into the future.

Thanks to their new tablets and knowledge of how to use them, the people in Park Road have been able to attend their appointments virtually, saving time and ensuring they are seen quickly.

Staff and people supported at the mirus stand at the technology event

Using a tablet to play a driving game

James from Park Road using his tablet to play a game

A technology provider explaining more about their services

Increasing independence and encouraging interests

Justin and Rhys, who live in separate bungalows at Kennard Court, have new independence and discreet support thanks to a new technology system in their home. The system uses Amazon Echo devices and Ring door sensors that allow staff to regularly check on the safety of them both, increasing their independence at home.

The Ring sensors are designed to detect when a door is opened, instantly notifying the staff through Alexa. This real-time alert system provides peace of mind for both the individuals and the staff, as any unexpected or potentially risky situations can be promptly addressed.

The devices allow two-way communication, and have given Justin and Rhys the ability to speak with staff whenever they need assistance or simply wish to engage in a conversation.

They can confidently navigate their daily lives, knowing that help is just a voice command away, while staff can fulfil their duty of care without intruding on their privacy.

Rhys has also embraced the use of his smartphone to access the internet, and has a good understanding of online safety. As a result he has been able to use the internet to explore his passions and interests more freely.

Using technology has opened up a world of possibilities for Rhys, enabling him to pursue his interests with confidence and independence.

The network of devices have not only improved the safety and wellbeing of Justin and Rhys but has also empowered them to enjoy more independence.

Rhys’ love for history has flourished as he now uses the internet to research historical sites before visiting them.

Rhys visiting historical buildings after researching them online

Justin and Rhys celebrating at an event in Cardiff

Discovering passions and learning new skills

Geraint House has positioned Amazon Echo devices in every room, which has had a significant positive impact on the people who are supported there.

One person supported who had previously suffered a brain injury now uses Alexa for reminders and scheduling. Their support needs have reduced, and they now remember to complete all of their tasks and attend their appointments and social meet ups.

Another person who lives at Geraint House has used the Echo devices help them to regain their independence following sight loss.

They had thought they would never be able to cook new dishes again, something which they had previously loved doing. However, they now use a device located in the kitchen to search and listen to recipes, which they follow while cooking. Their confidence has improved, and they’re now back to doing more of the things they enjoy.

Their families and the Local Authority have expressed their satisfaction with the increased independence the technology has granted, and are pleased with the positive impact it has made on the quality of life of the people supported.

Reducing night time support

The Just Checking system at Talardeg has allowed staff to monitor night-time movement, so that they can improve their approach to night time support.

The discreet system has strategically placed sensors, which allow for unobtrusive tracking of people’s activities during the night. When needed, precise and comprehensive reports can be generated by the system. These reports have helped staff work with the people supported and commissioners to reduce night time support, without compromising on safety.

Where previously a member of staff would need to monitor people constantly during the night, the technology now does this effectively their place. Staff no longer need to be awake during the night, and night time shifts are now sleep-ins.

The new approach was introduced gradually, based on data from the Just Checking system and feedback from the people supported.

night time hours.

People have told us that they are getting a better night’s sleep now that they no longer engage with staff during the night.

The transition was smooth for the people supported, who now feel less restricted and enjoy more autonomy during

A person supported at Geraint House celebrating their mirus star win An overview of how the Just Checking system displays activity

Improving communication and understanding

Following a person centred technology assessment for a person we support with limited mobility and speech, we researched and introduced technology that could help.

The smart TV app proved particularly beneficial for Gareth, who is a wheelchair user and encountered difficulties with the standard remote control provided with the television. By using the smart TV app, he gained improved access to TV functions, which enhanced their overall viewing experience and provided a greater sense of independence.

Widgit, on the other hand, is a subscription-based app that supports users to communicate with others using a collection of images. The person supported can select the images to help them communicate their thoughts, and the app then reads the images aloud so that others could listen and respond.

A smart TV app and Widgit software were introduced, to enhance accessibility and communication.

By using this app, the person supported gained more freedom of expression, and it has enabled them to interact with others more effectively.

A member of the Cardiff social group out having fun

Meeting up with friends and sharing stories

The Cardiff social group activities are now more popular than ever, thanks to the use of digital forms and tablets.

The new set up has revolutionised the way that information is shared and recorded, and even more people have joined as a result.

Mark, who leads the social groups said:

Promoting independence while enjoying a break

To enhance safety and promote independence, both respite houses in Cardiff have added Ring sensors to their front doors, which are connected to Amazon Echo devices and alert staff if the doors are opened.

The addition of sensors have given the people staying at respite greater autonomy, as they are free to explore the houses and gardens without being monitored. The staff at respite have commented that the reduced number of checkins has meant they can focus on providing an improved, more tailored experience for the people who are staying.

The success of the new technology has inspired the respite houses to explore additional technology solutions that can further improve the quality of life for the people they support.

By embracing innovative technologies, they aim to enhance people’s overall well-being, increase their independence, and allow space to focus on offering a more personalised, tailored service.

By recording attendance using a digital form, Mark has been able to identify which activities and events are the most popular, so that he can tailor the group’s plans to suit even more people.

They have also embraced digital storytelling to capture and share photos and videos that show the positive impact the social groups have on the people who attend.

Using the tablet to record data has cut down a lot of paperwork, leaving more time to plan new exciting things to do with the group.

The Cardiff social group celebrating together at Victoria Park

The Cardiff social group