Clive Gilbert, Policy Connect’s Head of Accessible Transport, recently participated in a roundtable discussion on technology in the care sector at the Liberal Democrats Party Conference.

Led by Policy Connect, the Social Care Institute for Excellence and the TSA, the roundtable spoke about the need for technological investment to support care workers in having the tools to effectively conduct their jobs and allow people to stay in their homes.

Attended by Liberal Democrats deputy leader and health and care spokesperson Daisy Cooper MP, the Bournemouth University sponsored event highlighted the need to think about integration between health and care, both through technology and workforce, to ensure a robust future for the care industry.

Discussing the steps that government can take to support independent living and well-being, Clive emphasised that: 

"It’s not just about technology; we must also address structural barriers. The accessibility and affordability of internet access, along with connectivity disparities in urban and rural areas, can exacerbate digital exclusion. Collaborative efforts between central government and local authorities are essential to providing broadband access and financial assistance to help people get online."

If you are interested in finding out more about out work on Assistive Technology, please contact clive.gilbert [at] policyconnect.org.uk (clive[dot]gilbert[at]policyconnect[dot]org[dot]uk)