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News, Events and Updates

Newsletter Archive

Welcome to the first edition of our new Digital Champions newsletter. This newsletter provides useful information to help with your day-to-day prescribing of Care Technology, informs you of news and updates, and offers tips and positive stories of Care Tec in action throughout Essex.

In this edition:

  • Product Spotlight: Pivotell Vibratime Smart Watch
  • Care TEC News
  • Who is your Digital Champion?
  • Monthly Ops Board
  • Important Updates from Livity Life
  • Case Study - Jean's Story
  • Get in Touch and Key Contacts

Product Spotlight: Pivotell Vibratime Smart Watch

The Pivotell Vibratime Smart Watch is a silent, vibrating watch with the option to add a personalised message that scrolls across the screen at alarm time. It can have up to eight vibrating alarms set per day, each lasting 40 seconds.

Key Features:

  • Medication Reminders: Customisable alerts to ensure you take the right medication at the right time.
  • Health Monitoring: Track sleep patterns and daily activity levels for better wellness insights.
  • Smart Notifications: Receive app notifications directly on your watch.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive touchscreen display for easy navigation.
  • Water-Resistant Design: Durable casing to withstand daily life, from workouts to rainy weather.

To order this watch, log on to Cares and find it in the Cognition and Memory section.

Carers Portal - New Area for 'Trust Documents'

Within the CARES portal, we've added a section called 'Trust Documents'. Here, you can find guides to help with ordering, referrals, product information, user guides, and case studies showing how products make a difference in people's lives. Access this section from the top left drop-down menu on the home screen.

Key Safe Installations

Although Essex hasn't supplied key safes for over a decade, our TEC Partners Carecall 24/7 can help. They can supply and fit a police-approved C500 keysafe anywhere in Essex for £75, paid by the service user. Contact Carecall 24/7 on 0300 303 2682 for installation.

Who’s Your Digital Champion?

Each area has its own digital champion. If you need assistance with an order or general advice, contact your digital champion directly. Find your digital champion in the 'Trust Documents' section within the CARES portal or on the Provider Hub.

Important Updates from Livity Life

TEC Room: Livity Life has opened a TEC room in their Chelmsford offices, showcasing the TEC available on the Cares online catalogue. Book a time slot to visit by emailing essex.tech@livitylife.co.uk.

New Starters: Welcome to Daniel Hall, our new Community Engagement Officer, and our soon-to-start Operations Manager. We've also increased our pool of Technicians for more daily installation slots.

Monthly Ops

We hold a Monthly Ops group meeting every four weeks on a Wednesday. The next meeting is on 26 March 2025 at 10:00am via Teams. Add the invite to your calendar using the provided link.

Case Study - Jean's Story

Jean, an 88-year-old woman living alone with dementia, had concerns about falls when out in the community. An OT referral led to the prescription of the ZinWatch, which allows alarm notifications at the touch of a button. Since using the ZinWatch, Jean's family has been able to respond quickly to falls, maintaining her independence and confidence.

Get in Touch

Thank you for reading our Care Tec Quarterly Newsletter. For future topics, email Livity Customer Services at essex.tech@livitylife.co.uk or call 0330 174 2868. For feedback, email tech@livitylife.co.uk.

Hello and welcome to the 2nd edition of the Essex County Council TEC Newsletter! With a full summer schedule ahead of us, we’re excited to share some of the fantastic events and updates coming up over the next few months. Let’s dive in

Connect – A New Dawn
We’re thrilled to announce that a brand-new system, Connect, will be launching to replace CARES in June 2025. Connect has been designed with your feedback in mind, incorporating many of the features you’ve been asking for. Key improvements include:
• One simple process, no more completing three separate forms.
• A dedicated Prescriber Portal for easier management and access.
• Simplified ordering with a clearer, more intuitive process.
• Real-time updates so you can track progress easily.
• A modern, easy-to-use interface designed to make your day smoother.
We are working hard to ensure everything is ready and are looking for volunteers to take part in User Acceptance Testing. Your involvement will help shape the final product and ensure it truly meets your needs. More information and opportunities to get involved will be shared very soon.

Connect

Training Options

App Catalogue
We are excited to announce the launch of the Essex App Directory. The App Directory is an organised collection of wellbeing, mental health, and lifestyle digital apps for Essex-based practitioners to embed digital tools in your social care work. This app is suitable for practitioners and should be used as a guide when recommending digital apps. Key benefits include
• Digital apps categorised by alphabet and category
• Encourage digitisation in social care work
• Cut down research time when searching for apps
With the App Directory, you can now browse through wellbeing, mental health, and lifestyle digital apps when thinking about digital recommendations for your person. Access through your phone (Android and iOS compatible) or through your web browser!
Install the App (Android and iOS)
Web Browser (no downloading needed)
Scan the QR code to get an instant link to the directory

For more details information please check on the Provider Hub

Meet the Team
We would like to introduce you to Dan Hall, Livity Life’s new Community Engagement Officer. Dan, who joined Livity Life from SEND Sensation has been with us since March and is settling into Essex life nicely. To help you get to know him better, we asked him five questions to get to the root of what makes him tick:

1. What work plans do you have coming up that excite you?
There is so much to look forward too. I have really enjoyed getting to know and working alongside the team at Livity & Essex. We have recently opened our TEC Demo Room for individuals and/or groups who would like to come down and look at what equipment we have on offer. As well as this I am excited to get our quadrant-based engagement events up and running.
Finally, I am excited to get out and about and engage with other professionals and people in the community to ensure they have a greater understanding of TEC (Technology Enabled Care) and building upon new/existing relationships.
2. What’s your go-to karaoke belter?
Depending on the environment, I have a few... In no order: Black Eyed Peas – Where is the Love, Uncle Cracker – Follow Me, Natasha Bedingfield – Unwritten.
3. What item of TEC do you use in your daily life and couldn’t go without, and why?
In a boring answer, I would say my phone. However, I will say my Garmin Watch, I do a 10k daily step challenge with friends, so it is important my watch records these. As well as the steps I enjoy challenging myself at sporting events, Marathons, Hyrox & Triathlons to name a few and my watch being the key bit of TEC to track these.
4. Boxset recommendation?
I don’t watch much TV. However, I really enjoyed the series ‘Night Agent’ and a shoutout to ‘Prison Break’ – Series 1 & any police detective programmes.
5. How do you like your eggs?
As an omelette.

Product Spotlight
Small Screen – BIG IMPACT!
The Echo Show 5 is a compact, voice-first smart display that’s making a big difference in the technology enabled care world. With simple voice commands, users can video call loved ones, get medication reminders, control lighting, or just ask Alexa for the weather—all without lifting a finger. It’s especially helpful for those with limited mobility or cognitive impairments.
Why it works
Easy to use voice activation
Clear video calling for social connections
Routines and reminders boost independence
Bottom Line - A small device with real potential to enhance daily living and reduce isolation.

Case Study
As a 19-year-old college student, I faced significant challenges in adhering to my medication schedule, which required me to take medicines six times a day. Visible reminders, such as alarms, led to peer bullying, making it difficult for me to remember my medication without drawing unwanted attention.
To address these challenges, I was provided with the Pivotell Vibratime Smartwatch. This technology solution offered discreet vibrating alerts that avoided drawing attention, and customizable timers set for all six medication times. It empowered me to take control of my medication without external intervention.
The intervention led to significant positive changes. Discreet reminders reduced peer attention and bullying, allowing me to consistently take my medication on time. As a result, I became a happier, more content, and independent individual.This case study highlights the importance of personalized technology solutions in supporting medication adherence and emotional well-being for young individuals facing social challenges.

In Other News:

Mosaic Update
For those of you who work within ECC, you may have noticed some changes to the TEC Referral form on Mosaic. The form has been reduced in size with fewer questions to answer to east double entre elsewhere, but the main thing to be aware of is the title of the form from the START menu is now Care Technology Referral.

Full information will be circulated by the Mosaic team once the update is live.

Demo Room
After opening its doors last month, the TEC Demo Room at Livity HQ in Chelmsford has received glowing feedback:
“Thank you for showing us around the TEC demo. It was very interesting and informative, and I shared it with colleagues to encourage others to visit and try the equipment. Thank you so much for letting us use your meeting room, kitchen, and tea/coffee. You made us all feel very welcome 😊”
Don’t forget, Livity Life has meeting facilities, so why not hold your next team meeting there with a trip into the demo room? To book a visit, please get in touch with dan.hall@livitylife.co.uk.

Digital Champions and the Essex Roadshows
We will be hosting our quarterly face-to-face meetings with our Digital Champions cohort this summer at the ALC Centre in Brentwood, South Essex, this June. If you would like more information or are interested in joining the Digital Champions programme, please get in touch via CareTECService@essex.gov.uk for joining details.
We have also started planning for this years TEC Roadshows which we will be holding over September. More information to be shared closer to the time, but keep your eyes peeled!

eLearning
Everyone reading this newsletter has attended one of our training sessions and is a fully-fledged TEC Prescriber. However, if you have colleagues who have yet to complete their training or you would like a refresher, don’t forget that our TEC eLearning can be found on MyLearn for ECC staff and on the provider hub for our external partners.

Monthly Ops
If you have had any problems using the TEC Service, please remember that we host a Monthly Operations meeting online, where users can bring their issues to the leadership team, who will look into the issues and bring resolution. If we don’t know what’s not working, we can’t fix it. Email CareTECService@essex.gov.uk for joining instructions.

 

TEC Newsletter – Christmas Edition 2025

Hello and welcome to the Christmas edition of your TEC newsletter! As the year draws to a close, we hope you’re enjoying the festive spirit don’t forget to take a break, sip some hot chocolate (with a splash of Baileys), and maybe sneak in a mince pie or two!

Big things are coming, but let’s take a moment to look back at the highlights of an amazing summer!

Roadshow 2025

Care Technology Awards

Stock Level updates

It’s not just equipment…

App Directory

Getting to know you

Case Study

Product Overview

 

 

ROADSHOW 2025 – What a Fantastic Month!

September was an incredible month for the TEC team as we successfully delivered our annual roadshow events across the county. After last year’s single event at the Chelmsford Racecourse, which drew over 400 TEC Heads and received glowing feedback, we returned to a more localised approach, and it paid off!

This year, we visited venues in Harlow, Basildon, Chelmsford, Colchester and met 300 current TEC prescribers and a whole host of newcomers.

Each venue buzzed with activity as attendees enjoyed provider showcases, in-house experts, case studies, networking opportunities, live demonstrations, and exhibits, all topped off with great refreshments and even a few prizes!

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the chance to see the latest innovations in Care Technology up close and connect with peers and experts.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and made these events such a success. If you missed out, don’t worry, there’s plenty more to come! Stay tuned for updates on future TEC events. Watch this space!

For any questions or to stay involved, contact us at CareTECService@essex.gov.uk.

 

Care Technology Awards 2025 – Celebrating Excellence!

We are thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s Annual Care Technology Awards, marking yet another record-breaking year for the Care Technology service. These awards celebrate colleagues who have gone above and beyond to make a real difference to the adults we support through innovative use of care technology.

Here are this year’s outstanding winners:

  • TEC Innovation Award – Congratulations to Amanda Gazzard

Her commitment to continuous improvement and ability to transfer vision into meaningful actions have really made a difference to many of our service users

  • Outstanding Individual Contribution Award – Melissa Young and Carl Klingenspor

Melissa is one of our top prescribers in Essex and is always promoting tec with adults and their families

Carl went above and beyond when discovering a fall during a home visit

  • Individual Customer Service Award – Leanne Childs and Jazmin Crook

Leanne is a team leader and call handler at Carecall 24/7 and is always willing to go the extra mile to make sure our customers are safe and her team members are happy and well trained.

Jazmin is part of the customer service team at Livity Life. She receives continuous praise from clients for her warmth professionalism and unwavering commitment to their wellbeing

Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations and helped us celebrate the incredible work happening across our teams. Your efforts continue to drive innovation and improve lives every day!

 

STOCK LEVEL UPDATE


Please note that although some items may show a stock level of 0, we do have stock available for all required items. You can still proceed with your order, and it will be placed on a waitlist. Our customer service team will ensure the order is processed and installed as soon as possible.

If you have an urgent order and the stock shows 0, kindly place your order and email us at essex.tech@livitylife.co.uk. This will be prioritised as an urgent request and handled accordingly.

We are actively working to resolve this issue and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support!

 

IT’S NOT JUST EQUIPMENT…

Using Connect you can order all kinds of TEC to help support the adults you are working with, however, what you may not know is we also have options for assessments. Here is a summary of what we can offer:

 

OT Assessment

Our partners at Livity Life have two Occupational Therapists on site who can support you with making informed decisions on more complex situations. They can carry out a join assessment with you at the adult’s home to get a clear idea of what may be possible regarding TEC supporting them achieve their goals.

 

Epilepsy Assessments

The Livity Life OT will work with you, the adult, and their friends or family in making informed decision on the kind of Epilepsy equipment available, that will support them and their networks in staying safe, while helping them to manage their condition.

 

STAT Assessment

STAT or Short-Term Assessment Tool is a piece of equipment that will go into a consenting adult’s home and monitor their movement for up to six weeks. Using a combination of motion, door and plug sensors, the STAT will paint a full picture of how someone is coping 24 / 7, allowing you to make a fully informed decision on what level of care is needed. See product overview for more information on this.

 

Scheme reviews

Essex has dozens of housing schemes across the county caring for adults with a higher or more complex set of care needs and TEC can be a big part in supporting independence and safety for residents. Our OT can support you in reviewing each resident’s needs independently as one piece of work. where possible we look for equipment that can be joined up, shared or used to support multiple residents. A scheme review can make this daunting task a reality.

 

APP DIRECTORY

The App Directory is an organised collection of wellbeing, mental health, and lifestyle digital apps for Essex-based practitioners to embed digital tools in your social care work. This app is suitable for practitioners and should be used as a guide when recommending digital apps. Key benefits include

  • Digital apps categorised by alphabet and category
  • Encourage digitisation in social care work
  • Cut down research time when searching for apps

With the App Directory, you can now browse through wellbeing, mental health, and lifestyle digital apps when thinking about digital recommendations for your person. Access through your phone (Android and iOS compatible) or through your web browser!

Please follow this link or QR code for more information and access to the App Directory https://www.essexproviderhub.org/care-technology/app-directory/

 

Getting to know you

This month we have had a chat with one of our TEC partner superheroes, Laura Lew who is the new Occupational Therapist at Livity Life. Here’s your chance to get to know a little bit about her.  

 

  • What work plans do you have coming up that excite you? The TEC roadshow next summer and in the meantime, working on our new videos (coming soon!)
  • What’s your go-to karaoke belter? TLC Waterfalls (rap version of course)
  • What item of TEC do you use in your daily life and couldn’t go without, and why? Smart lighting, because using light switches manually is so 1995, and Alexa for music (when it isn’t being commandeered by my 2 and 4 year olds!)
  • Boxset recommendation? Father Ted, Derry Girls, Bad Sisters, Motherland and Breaking Bad.
  • How do you like your eggs? Chocolate, wrapped in foil

 

Case study – Wearable Community careline equipment

 

We often get requests from prescribers about how to manage someone’s safety when out in the community without infringing on their independence. A careline package will cover you when at home but what about when you want to head out and about independently? The following pair of case studies show how this is possible with TEC:

 

Sandy, a 91-year-old living in rural West Essex, faced challenges due to poor mobility and cataracts. Despite these limitations, she wished to continue caring for her chickens and sheep but feared falling. A GPS tracker was installed with her friend as the responder, providing reassurance and enabling Sandy to maintain her daily routine safely.

 

Sandra, aged 80, lives alone following the loss of her husband and lives with Parkinson’s disease. Concerned about falls, SW and her son agreed to use the Zinwatch Zinmobile device. This solution allows Sandra to remain independent while giving her son peace of mind.

 

Product overview – Short Term Assessment Tool (STAT)  - Andi by 2iC Care

Andi is a new smart care system we are utilising as a Short Term Assessment Tool which will helps professional understand what is happening in a property when family or carers are not there. We will be using this platform to support assessments to gain insight into a person's behaviours and  routines when home alone.

What is Andi?

  • Andi helps people stay safe and independent at home.
  • It works proactively – spotting small changes before they become big problems.
  • Andi learns about a person’s daily routines and wellbeing.
  • If something changes, it alerts carers early.

How does it work?

  • Andi uses sensors (motion, door, plug) to see how someone is coping at home.
  • This gives a 24/7 picture of their routines when carers are not there.
  • It helps us adjust care packages to determine the right sized care package.

 

What will you see?

  • You won’t scroll through lots of data.
  • Andi uses AI to summarise each day.
  • You get short, clear updates about routines and behaviours.
  • Showing the real concerns quickly.

How to refer someone

  • As mentioned in the above article, Fill in the referral form in the assessment section in Connect.
  • Livity Life will contact you with next steps.

 

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this edition of the TEC newsletter is all about dating, kind of… With a host of Skills Sessions with Livity Life’s OT Laura, our plans for the 2026 TEC Roadshow, as well as the schedule for our TEC Champion get‑togethers, there’s something for everyone!

This month, we’re sharing our love of TEC. We’ll be getting to know Carecall 24/7’s very own Ayo, celebrating the heart of what we do out in the community, and rekindling our romance with the epilepsy assessment process to make sure it’s working exactly as it should. It’s all about connection, commitment, and keeping the people we support safe and cared for.

Your secret admirer, The TEC Team

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Skills Sessions with Laura

BOOK NOW! – TEC Roadshow 2026

Epilepsy Process update

TEC Champions Schedule – join us!

TEC Flat @ Anglia Ruskin – open for business!

Case Study – Epilepsy and GPS

Product review - Zin Mobile

Getting to know…

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  • Skill Sessions with OT Laura

We’re pleased to invite you to our new series of bitesize, 30minute online TEC Skills Sessions, designed to support your confidence and knowledge when prescribing Technology Enabled Care. Each monthly session will focus on a specific product, giving you practical, real world guidance, including: 

  • What the product does and which needs it can help meet 
  • Compatibility with other equipment and environments 
  • How to order the item on Connect 
  • A brief case example showing how it has been used in practice 

These sessions are short, focused and completely optional. Simply click on the sessions you’d like to attend and join us on the day. Whether you’re new to TEC or looking to refresh your knowledge, these sessions are a quick and easy way to stay up to date. 

We have sessions around Base Units & Alarm Pendants, Bed & Chair Sensors,  Medication Dispensers,  Reminder Devices,  Fire Safety,  Door & Window Sensors,  Activity Monitoring and many more.

To register your interest, please follow the link to book on to a session.

Livity Life - Skill Session 2026

 

  • BOOK NOW! – TEC Roadshow 2026

We are very excited to invite you to this year’s Essex TEC Showcase: Five Years On – Shaping the Future of TEC Together, taking place on 1st July 2026 at Chelmsford City Racecourse.

After a completely sold‑out event in 2024, we’re bringing the Showcase back, bigger, better, and even more inspiring. And as a thank you to our Essex colleagues, we’re opening an exclusive Early Bird offer just for Essex staff.

🎟️ Early Bird Tickets Available Now
👉 Ticket‑only event — limited spaces!
👉 FREE to attend
👉 Lunch included
👉 First come, first served — these will go fast!
👉 FREE parking

This year’s Showcase will bring together innovators, practitioners, partners, and sector leaders to reflect on our five‑year TEC journey and explore what’s next. Expect hands‑on tech, live demonstrations, future‑focused conversations, and lots of opportunities to connect with colleagues shaping digital care across Essex.

If you want to be part of one of the county’s most energising TEC events, now is the moment to secure your spot. Tickets are already flying so book now to avoid disappointment.

Book your ticket on Eventbrite:
Click Here for Your Ticket

Don’t miss out, demand is high, tickets are limited, and once they’re gone… they’re gone!

We can’t wait to welcome you on 1st July.

  • Reminder about Epilepsy referrals

This is a reminder for colleagues completing epilepsy assessments via Connect. Please ensure that referrals are made by the prescriber who will be holding the adult’s case for more than just a few days. Following OT involvement, the referring prescriber will need to remain engaged in the process, so it’s important that the referral comes from the practitioner who will continue to oversee the case.

This helps maintain continuity, ensures timely follow‑up, and supports safe, effective decision‑making for the individuals we work with.

We are running a waiting list at the moment which will mean referrals will be triaged for urgency, if you need an update on the referral status, please get in touch with Livity Life OT department on OTEssex@livitylife.co.uk to discuss.

 

  • TEC Champs Schedule for 2026

Across Essex, we are proud to have a thriving community of TEC Champions who support other TEC prescribers in identifying the most appropriate technology to help the people they work with.

Essex County Council and Livity Life jointly support this network by hosting quarterly TEC Champion meet‑ups across the four quadrants of Essex. Each session in 2026 will have a dedicated theme, and we would love your input to help make these the best TEC Champion meetings yet.

 

2026 Schedule

March - Seizures

June – Assessing for TEC and using TEC to assess

September – Neurological Conditions

December – Mental Health

If you’re interested in joining this fantastic group of champions, please get in touch at careTECservice@essex.gov.uk to find out more.

 

  • TEC Demo Flat – How to Book

Since December, Livity Life has had access to a student flat on the Anglia Ruskin University campus in Chelmsford, fully equipped with the latest care technology. This space is available for Essex staff and all TEC prescribers to visit, explore the equipment, and see the technology in action.

There are facilities on site to host team meetings and work so please think of us next time you are wanting to do something a little different for your team get together. Dan from Livity Life will be happy to book you in and answer any questions.

To check availability and book a session, please email Dan Hall at:
daniel.hall@livitylife.co.uk

 

  • Case Study

Sarah, a 44‑year‑old woman with severe, unpredictable epilepsy and a history of migraines, was referred for a technology‑focused Occupational Therapy assessment. She experiences frequent seizures with no warning, often resulting in injury, and has recurrent falls at home linked to dizziness. She mobilises with crutches following a previous seizure‑related injury. These risks have significantly restricted her community access, leading to occupational deprivation and increasing social isolation.

Two technologies were recommended to enhance safety and independence:

  • Zin Watch to provide reassurance and rapid support in the event of a fall, particularly when out in the community.
  • Epicare Mobile, a seizure‑detection and alert system with GPS, enabling safer community engagement and timely assistance.

These interventions aim to increase participation, reduce deconditioning, support autonomy, and protect mental wellbeing.

Service User Feedback:

“I cannot believe the difference this is already making to my life. I finally went on the bus to see my friends, on my own, for the first time in years.”

 

 

  • Product review on Zin Mobile

 

The Zin Mobile is a compact and reliable GPS monitoring device designed to support individuals who may be at risk when out in the community that can also double up as a full careline system in the home. Its lightweight design allows it to be worn on a lanyard, clipped to clothing, or carried discreetly, making it accessible for a wide range of users. Core safety features include real‑time GPS tracking, geofencing alerts, a front‑facing SOS button, automatic fall detection, and two‑way communication through a built‑in speaker and microphone. With a waterproof casing and a UK‑wide SIM, it functions independently without the need for a smartphone or home hub, offering flexibility and reassurance to both users and carers.

The Zin Mobile is particularly well‑suited for people who regularly go out alone, are at risk of disorientation or wandering, or have a history of falls. It supports independence while ensuring that help can be reached quickly when needed. Alerts can be directed either to a monitoring centre or to nominated personal responders, offering local authorities and families flexibility in how support is arranged.

When matched appropriately to a person’s needs and abilities, the Zin Mobile can significantly enhance community safety, confidence, and independence.

 

  • Getting to know… Ayo Nwokobia

 

Ayo Nwokobia is the Technology Supervisor at Carecall 24/7, our careline monitoring partners. His work helps keep Carecall 24/7 at the cutting edge of the care technology industry as well as doing vital outreach work in the community at events

 

What work plans do you have coming up that excite you?

I'm really looking forward to the next generation of digital healthcare alarms we'll be installing. They have new features that integrate with smart home technology, like fall detection and inactivity alerts that are more accurate. It's always exciting to work with new tech, and knowing these upgrades will give our clients and their families even more peace of mind is a great feeling.

What’s your go-to karaoke belter?

I can’t sing, but if I have a gun pointed to my head, I’ll do a UB40 Red Red wine 😂

What item of TEC do you use in your daily life and couldn’t go without, and why?

My smartphone, without a doubt. It's essential for my work—accessing installation schedules and communicating with the office and clients. But it's also my main tool for navigation, music, and staying in touch with friends and family.

Boxset recommendation?

Breaking bad

How do you like your eggs?

I Like my eggs fried with a soft yolk.

 

 

 

TEC Newsletter April 2026

Welcome to this edition of the Care Technology newsletter. Spring has sprung! We hope you all enjoyed a restful easter break and are now enjoying the lighter evening and occasional glimpses of sunshine.

In this letter, we would like to tell you about some of the exciting things we have coming up over the next few months that can help support you in making the most of Care TEC to make the lives of the people you are supporting that little easier.

  • TEC Showcase – last few tickets remaining, book your spot now!
  • TEC Awards – get your votes in
  • Skills session with Laura
  • ANDI Awareness Sessions
  • TEC Champs update
  • Product Review - ZIN voice activated care alert
  • Getting to know… Louise DeGiovanni

 

Shaping the future of Technology Enabled Care – July 1st 2026

We would like to remind you about the Care Technology Showcase event taking place this summer at the Chelmsford Racecourse on the 1st of July. Tickets have been moving rapidly, we are down to the final 50 of 500. We have been overwhelmed at the interest so far and look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.

This year’s Showcase will bring together innovators, practitioners, partners, and sector leaders to reflect on our five‑year TEC journey and explore what’s next. Expect hands‑on tech, live demonstrations, future‑focused conversations, and lots of opportunities to connect with colleagues shaping digital care across Essex.

Book your ticket on Eventbrite:
Click Here for Your Ticket

 

TEC Awards

This year marks a huge milestone, FIVE YEARS of our Technology Enabled Care service transforming lives across Essex!

From humble beginnings to a record‑breaking year, every one of you has played a part in shaping what TEC looks like today, innovative, impactful, and genuinely life‑changing.

To celebrate everything we’ve achieved together, we’re thrilled to launch the Essex TEC Awards 2026.

These annual awards are your chance to shine a spotlight on colleagues who’ve gone above and beyond in delivering outstanding care through technology. Whether it’s incredible customer service, creative thinking, or unwavering dedication, you get to help recognise the people who make our service exceptional.

You can nominate a colleague (or several!) for any of the three categories below:

🏆 TEC Innovation Award
For a colleague who has shown outstanding creativity, ingenuity, or forward‑thinking in prescribing TEC.

🏆 Outstanding Individual Contribution Award
For someone who has truly gone the extra mile and made a meaningful difference to the adults we support.

🏆 Individual Customer Service Award
For a teammate who consistently delivers exceptional customer service and puts people at the heart of everything they do.

 You can nominate in one, two, or all three categories using the online form Here.

Nominations close on 22 May 2026, so don’t miss the chance to recognise the amazing work happening across our service every day.

All TEC Prescribers using the Essex pathway are eligible and nominations will be judged by a panel representing our function, the TEC Team, Livity Life, and Carecall 24/7.

Submit your nomination here by May 22nd

Get voting, and let’s showcase the incredible people who make TEC what it is today! 🎉

 

Skills Session with Laura

Thank you to everyone who attended our latest TEC Skills Webinar on “Base Units” in April. For those of you who were unable to attend, the recording, as well as the previous sessions are live on Connect so please feel free to watch it at a time that’s convenient for you.

Our next webinar is on 14th May - Bed & Chair Sensors which will focus on TEC that can help support safe entry and exits from a sitting or laying position and equipment that can help notify caraes when someone is on the move who may need assistance.  

For those of you that haven’t booked you place, please click on the link and select the webinars of interest. In the days leading up to the webinar, you will be sent an invitation to attend the specific webinar and a subsequent link to that event.  This link is also available on the homepage of Connect.

Livity Life - Skill Sessions

 

ANDI – Short Term Assessment Tool Awareness sessions

For those of you who’ve been with us for a while, you might remember Just Checking and Anthropos. These short‑term assessment tools helped us build a clearer picture of how someone was managing at home when we weren’t there, by gathering evidence about daily routines and how their home was being used over a six‑week period. This insight supported more informed decisions about the care and support people needed.

We’ve recently changed supplier and are now using ANDI by 2iC Care. ANDI offers similar benefits, with a more up‑to‑date approach to helping us understand people’s lived experiences at home.

To help everyone feel confident using ANDI, we’ll be running a series of 45‑minute awareness sessions throughout April and May at our ECC bases. These sessions will include a short presentation and live demonstration, showing how ANDI can help you right‑size care and put appropriate packages in place.

We’d love you to come along and see how ANDI can support you to make sure people are getting the most from care that’s right for them.

Date for sessions:

Colchester Rowan House 29th April

Harlow Goodman House 7th May

Basildon Ely House 12th May

Chelmsford County Hall 26th May

To book you spot:

Click the link to express your interest in understanding how ANDI can help you to make fully informed decisions.

TEC Champions

In March, we held one of our quarterly TEC Champion get‑togethers, this time in Colchester. The session brought together colleagues and partners for an engaging and informative programme.

We heard from Laura Lew and Deb Knowles, Occupational Therapists from Livity Life, who delivered a lively presentation on how epilepsy‑related equipment can support independence. They also shared practical advice on how to weave this knowledge into everyday conversations with the people we support.

This was followed by a talk from Andy from Alert‑It, specialists in seizure monitoring equipment, who showcased a selection of products from their range and explained how these can be used in real‑world settings.

 

 

We were also joined by Paul from AbilityNet, who spoke about the charity’s work supporting people to understand and use technology enabled care (TEC), as well as helping them make the most of the technology they already own.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to such a valuable session.

To find out more, please check the links below

Alert-iT Care Alarms | Personal Alarms & Monitors | Guardian Alarms

A digital world accessible to all | AbilityNet

We also celebrated World Down Syndrome day by Rockin’ our Socks!

If you would like to be part of our cohort of TEC Champions, our next meeting is in South Essex, in Basildon in June 2026. Email us on CareTECService@essex.gov.uk to find out about how to join us going forward.

 

Product Review: Voice Recognition Alarm by Zin

The Voice Recognition Alarm by Zin is a discreet assistive technology device designed to enhance safety for adults who may be at risk of falls or need urgent help within the home. For social workers involved in assessing telecare and preventative support solutions, this device offers a useful alternative or supplement to traditional pendant alarms.

Overview and Functionality
The alarm operates as a peripheral connected to a Zin base unit and is activated by a simple voice command: “Help me.” When spoken in close proximity, the device opens a call to a monitoring centre or pre-agreed contacts such as family members, depending on the individual’s response plan. A large, easy-to-press manual button is also included, providing an additional activation option if voice use is not possible.

Practical Applications
This device is particularly well suited to scenarios where a wearable pendant may not always be used. For example, it can be positioned between the bedroom and bathroom to provide reassurance for someone who gets up during the night and may forget or choose not to wear their pendant. Fixed placement helps ensure a consistent point of access to support in high‑risk areas of the home.

Key Considerations for Prescribing
The Voice Recognition Alarm works best for individuals who can speak clearly, remember the activation phrase, and use it appropriately in an emergency. Background noise and home layout should be considered, as these may affect voice detection, and some homes may require multiple devices to ensure full coverage. While the unit includes a backup battery, proximity to a mains power supply is recommended for optimal reliability. It is also important to note that the device only recognises English language commands and will not activate if the person loses consciousness.

Conclusion
Compact in size (similar in size to a light switch) and straightforward to use, the Zin Voice Recognition Alarm is a valuable option for social workers seeking tailored, non‑wearable telecare solutions. When carefully matched to the individual’s abilities and environment, it can significantly enhance independence and peace of mind.

 

Getting to know you… Louise DeGiovanni

We would like to introduce you to one of Livity Life’s new OTs, Louise DeGiovanni. She has recently joined the service to support undertaking TEC focused OT assessments as part of the Care TEC Service.

She answers our regular questions

  • What work plans do you have coming up that excite you?

I am genuinely excited by how fast the technology is evolving and how practical it is in supporting people to live safely and independently at home. The constant steam of new solutions and innovations makes the role feel fresh and forward-thinking. I am particularly looking forward to roadshow in July, as it will be a great opportunity to see new developments in action, share ideas, and connect with others.

  • What’s your go-to karaoke belter?

I would normally spare everyone and firmly decline the mic (It’s an act of kindness). But if I absolutely had to choose, it would be a classic crowd pleaser like ABBA Mamma mia. If I am going down, I’m going down with a song everyone loves to sing and dance along to. Hopefully, this will help drown me out.

  • What item of TEC do you use in your daily life and couldn’t go without, and why?

My GPS navigation – without question! My sense of direction is terrible, and I rely on it daily to get where I need to be or take me the best route to get there quicker. It’s a perfect example of how everyday tech can make life more manageable and less stressful.

  • Boxset recommendation?

It’s still ongoing so not really a boxset but checkout Severance. Its well-produced, has great characters and so addictive. Can’t wait for the next season.

  • How do you like your eggs?

Scrambled! A bit all over the place but comes together perfectly.

 

Events

 

We’re delighted to share that the Essex TEC Showcase: Five Years On – Shaping the Future of TEC Together is now completely SOLD OUT!

Taking place on 1st July 2026 at Chelmsford City Racecourse, this year’s event has seen exceptional demand following the success of our 2024 showcase — and once again, every ticket has now been snapped up.

👉 Sold out – all tickets allocated
👉 FREE to attend
👉 Lunch included
👉 FREE parking

Due to overwhelming interest, we are now offering a waitlist for any additional or returned places.

This year’s Showcase will bring together innovators, practitioners, partners, and sector leaders to reflect on our five‑year TEC journey and explore what’s next. Attendees can expect hands‑on tech, live demonstrations, future‑focused conversations, and plenty of opportunities to connect with colleagues shaping digital care across Essex.

If you’d still like a chance to join one of the county’s most energising TEC events, we encourage you to join the waitlist below.

🔗 Book your ticket on Eventbrite:
Click Here for Your Ticket

We’ll contact you if a space becomes available.

Thank you for the incredible interest. We can’t wait to welcome attendees on 1st July!

 

 

 

New Ordering System CONNECT

Technology Enabled Care (TEC) orders are now being processed through our new ordering system, Connect – Click here to access Connect

To access and use the Connect system, you must have completed the required training:

🎓 E-learning is live and available here:

👉 Connect E Learning

🗓️ Prefer live training?

You can also book onto one of our monthly training sessions by contacting:
📩 caretecservice@essex.gov.uk

Need support?

If you experience any issues or have questions about using Connect, please contact:
📧 connectessex@livitylife.co.uk

Thank you for your continued support and dedication in helping deliver life-enhancing care through TEC.

We’re excited about this new chapter — and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Essex TEC Awards 2026

This year marks a huge milestone… FIVE YEARS of our Technology Enabled Care service transforming lives across Essex!

From humble beginnings to a record‑breaking year, every one of you has played a part in shaping what TEC looks like today, innovative, impactful, and genuinely life‑changing.

To celebrate everything we’ve achieved together, we’re thrilled to launch the Essex TEC Awards 2026.

These annual awards are your chance to shine a spotlight on colleagues who’ve gone above and beyond in delivering outstanding care through technology. Whether it’s incredible customer service, creative thinking, or unwavering dedication, you get to help recognise the people who make our service exceptional.

 

🌟 Award Categories

You can nominate a colleague (or several!) for any of the three categories below:

🏆 TEC Innovation Award
For a colleague who has shown outstanding creativity, ingenuity, or forward‑thinking in prescribing TEC.

🏆 Outstanding Individual Contribution Award
For someone who has truly gone the extra mile and made a meaningful difference to the adults we support.

🏆 Individual Customer Service Award
For a teammate who consistently delivers exceptional customer service and puts people at the heart of everything they do.

 

🗳️ How to Nominate

You can nominate in one, two, or all three categories using the online form (Here).

Nominations close on 22 May 2026, so don’t miss the chance to recognise the amazing work happening across our service every day.

All TEC Prescribers using the Essex process are eligible, and nominations will be judged by a panel representing our function, Livity Life, and Provide.

 

🎤 Awards Ceremony

Winners will be celebrated in style at our Essex TEC Showcase – Five Years On: Shaping The Future of Technology Enabled Care Together being held on 1st July 2026 at Chelmsford City Racecourse.

If you haven’t already, you can book your ticket for our Essex TEC Showcase – Five Years On: Shaping The Future of Technology Enabled Care Together event you can do so by clicking below –

🔗 Book your ticket on Eventbrite:
Click Here for Your Ticket

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the team at: CareTECService@essex.gov.uk

Your details are not collected unless you choose to include them, so nominate freely and confidently.

Let’s celebrate five years of innovation, teamwork, and making a real difference.

Get voting, and let’s showcase the incredible people who make TEC what it is today! 🎉

Last updated: 21/11/2024