Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council is planning to use a digital platform and app to support residents from different communities in healthy ageing.
Its public health team is preparing a programme using the Unity platform developed by Health Fabric and supported by funding from UK Research and Innovation’s Healthy Ageing Challenge.
The platform enables health and care professionals to segment their populations and create effective health and wellness campaigns can be used to create information in many languages and delivers it through the app.
The programme will run for two years and involve the council engaging with 11 communities represented in the Sandwell Health Inequalities Programme, Sandwell BAME groups and other stakeholders to develop appropriate content and services for people with long term conditions. These will include type 2 diabetes and mental health conditions, as part of a wider plan of action to help people age well.
Health Fabric said the technology is supported by a unique approach to engaging directly with BAME communities to encourage uptake and adoption.
Great intervention
Cllr Suzanne Hartwell, cabinet member for adult social care and health, said: “This is a great digital intervention that can make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of our local residents. Receiving the right guidance and support to manage long term health conditions can make a significant difference to people’s quality of life.
“This digital intervention will provide this and make a tangible difference to our communities that may currently face barriers to easily access support.”
The app that accompanies the platform also enables users to record data, such as mood or weight, and access self-help plans to address healthcare issues. Data and goals can be shared with family, friends and carers, so they can create an environment of support and encouragement.
