Technology Enabled Care

Technology Enabled Care (TEC) refers to a variety of products and services designed to help individuals live their lives as they choose, while maintaining maximum independence and safety.

Two ladies sat on a sofa, smiling at each other whilst holding coffee cups.

What is Technology Enabled Care (TEC)?

Dorset Council offers a wide range of Technology Enabled Care (TEC) devices designed to help people live more safely and independently at home.

Some TEC devices can automatically call for help if something goes wrong, like if you fall or feel unwell.

If a call for help is made from a TEC device a team of trained advisers at a monitoring centre will answer your call, this service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This service is sometimes called Lifeline or Careline, and it means you're never alone.

Other TEC devices can:

  • remind you about important things like taking medicine or going to appointments
  • help you stay in touch with family and friends
  • let someone you live with know if you might need help

TEC is here to make life easier, safer, and more connected

TEC can be helpful for anyone of all ages who need a bit of extra support, including:

  • people with learning disabilities
  • those living with long-term health conditions
  • people with autism, dementia, or mental health needs
  • adults or older people who want to stay independent

How can TEC help me or someone I know?

Promoting Independence

TEC solutions, such as personal alarms, medication reminders, and smart home devices, can enable individuals to manage their daily activities more independently.


Enhancing Safety

Devices like falls pendants, motion sensors, mobile devices and emergency response systems ensure that help is readily available in case of accidents or emergencies, thereby enhancing the safety of individuals.


Reducing Social Isolation

Communication technologies, such as video calling and interactive platforms, help individuals stay connected with family, friends, and support networks, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.


Carers

TEC offers numerous benefits for caregivers, enhancing their ability to provide effective and sustainable efficient care. Often sensors or devices can be used to alert a carer that assistance is needed or prompt the person to do something for themselves.

How much does TEC cost?

TEC is provided and funded by Dorset Council for individuals with assessed Care Act eligible needs, or those anticipated to have such needs within the next six months. Following an assessment, for those who qualify, TEC is currently free of charge, including both the equipment and any ongoing monthly fees.

 

Find Out More About Eligibility


Eligibility and Assessment Criteria of the Adult Policy 2023 - Dorset Council

Alternatively, you may choose to self-fund your own TEC solutions.

Learn more about alarms and sensors:

Careline Providers:

How can I get help?

You can find out how Technology Enabled Care (TEC) or smart technology could assist you or someone you care about by visiting one of our TEC lounges.

We have two sites in Wimborne and Dorchester where you can explore the latest equipment and devices designed to enhance your quality of life.

Our TEC Lounge in Dorchester has been thoughtfully designed to resemble a home environment, with technology seamlessly integrated into the space. This allows you to see how these innovations can fit into your daily life.

We offer:

  • information and demonstrations - Get hands-on experience with the TEC Dorset Council offer and some of the latest smart home TEC products
  • impartial support - Unsure which product is right for you? Our team provides unbiased guidance to help you make the best choice

photo of the inside of the TEC lounge

Get in touch with our Adult Access Team

Opening times are Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.

Contact our Adult Access Team to discuss your needs with our trained staff, they will help you decide what support might best meet your needs. This could include: 

  • information, advice and guidance which may come from your local community run by our volunteer partners 
  • identifying equipment, technology and/or minor adaptations that would help you to remain independent. This could include organising delivery and installation
  • arranging a period of short-term care
  • raising a safeguarding concern to our Adult Safeguarding Team to provide support to someone who may be experiencing some form of abuse, for example domestic, financial or physical abuse

Carrying out an assessment 

Telephone: 01305 221016. Or save time by telling them online. Get in touch using our online form if you would like:

  • information and advice about social care
  • to maximise your independence and safety at home

Use it for yourself or to refer someone else. It will capture all the information we need to respond to any enquiry in the best way possible.

Adult Social Care

Full contact details