A report to South Lanarkshire Council's Social Work Resources Committee highlights how social work and social care services are increasingly using practical technologies to support independence, improve wellbeing and enhance people’s experience of care.

This includes the rollout of virtual medication prompting devices designed to help people manage medication safely at home, reducing anxiety for individuals and families while supporting greater independence in day-to-day life.

The report also highlights the continued expansion of telecare and digital support technologies, with more than 7,000 community alarm connections upgraded ahead of the national analogue telephone network switch-off and over 2,500 telecare referrals processed during 2025.

Residents in South Lanarkshire’s care homes are also benefiting from innovative Smart TV technology, enabling video calls, messaging and improved access to activities and support. Following a successful pilot, the technology has been extended across all council care homes and the Blantyre LIFE facility.

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care, said: "Technology is creating new opportunities to help people remain independent, connected and in control of their lives.

"Whether it is helping someone manage their medication, providing reassurance through telecare or enabling residents in our care homes to stay in regular contact with family and friends, these developments are improving people’s experience of care and support.

"These innovations form part of our wider commitment to helping people live well within their own communities for as long as possible.

"By combining innovation with the expertise and commitment of our staff and partners, we are helping more people live well, stay connected and receive the right support in the place they call home."