What is TEC?
Technology Enabled Care (TEC) gives you access to smart products and services that help you live safely, independently, and on your own terms.
We provide a wide range of TEC devices designed to:
- call for help automatically if you fall or feel unwell
- connect you to trained advisers 24/7 through monitored services
- remind you to take medication or attend appointments
- keep you in touch with family and friends
- alert someone you live with if you need support
TEC makes everyday life easier, safer, and more connected.
Who can benefit?
TEC supports people of all ages who want extra help to stay independent, including:
- people with learning disabilities
- those living with long‑term health conditions
- people with autism, dementia, or mental health needs
- adults and older people who want to remain at home
How TEC helps
Promotes independence using:
- personal alarms
- medication reminders
- smart devices help you manage daily activities
Enhances safety with:
- falls pendants
- motion sensors
- emergency response systems which ensures help is always available
Reduces isolation
With video calling and interactive platforms keeping you connected to loved ones.
Supports carers
With sensors and alerts giving them peace of mind and helping individuals take action themselves.
Costs
An assessment can help identify Technology Enabled Care (TEC) solutions that may support you or your loved one to live more safely and independently. We will discuss your needs and explore whether TEC could help meet them.
If TEC is identified as meeting an eligible need, Dorset Council may be able to fund the equipment and any ongoing service costs under the Care Act 2014.
Self-funding TEC
Some people choose to buy their own TEC solutions. The TEC Lounge gives you the opportunity to explore different technologies and see some of them in action, helping you decide what might work best for you or your loved one.
Even if TEC is recommended following an assessment, it may not meet the eligibility criteria for funding under the Care Act 2014. In these circumstances, you can choose to self-fund technology that meets your needs.
Options include:
- Which? has a guide about How to buy the best personal alarm
- our partner Mediquip Connect can support, install and monitor TEC to keep you safe
- see our list of Careline providers
TEC lounges
Explore TEC in person at our lounges in Wimborne and Dorchester:
- see demonstrations of the latest smart home devices
- try equipment hands‑on in a home‑like setting
- get impartial advice to choose the right solution for you or your loved one
An introduction to the TEC Lounge
Wimborne TEC Lounge
This lounge is situated within The Hanham Independent Living Centre, Wimborne Minster. There are parking facilities and disabled access.
Dorchester TEC Lounge
This lounge is situated within Greenwood Independent Living Centre, Dorchester. There are parking facilities and disabled access.