Assistant 'robots' showcased among innovative social care solutions

"Robots designed to help carers lift people without the need for extra assistance are among the innovations showcased in an initiative to support local authorities using technology to deliver social care.

The innovations were discovered through the NHS Digital Social Care Digital Innovation Programme and the Social Care Digital Innovation Accelerators programmes, which some 69 local authorities took part in.

The programmes, run as part of NHS Digital’s five-year Social Care Programme and in collaboration with the Local Government Association, have now closed with information about the innovations available online. The hope is that more local authorities may adopt the new technologies to help improve adult social care.

Computer controlled robots – or ‘cobots’ – were trialled in the Isle of Wight and Hampshire to help carers lift people without assistance.

The robots are worn around the waist and lower back to help support the lifting, holding and moving of people. Not only do they help to reduce the risk of injury and minimise fatigue for carers, but they are also reduce the need for two carers to work together, a big help in reducing infection risks during the Covid-19 pandémic..." Lire la suite