Blackwood Homes & Care's Innovative Tech Recognised for Advancing Independent Living

Blackwood Homes & Care has been honored with the Technology Enabled Independent Living award at the Holyrood Digital Health and Care Awards, acknowledging their groundbreaking efforts in enhancing independent living through technology.

Empowering Independence Through Technology

Central to Blackwood's success is their 24/7 digital responder service, supporting over 200 adults across Scotland, many with disabilities or mental health challenges. This service allows users to manage their care remotely, reducing the need for scheduled in-person visits by providing flexible, on-demand support at the touch of a button.

The service is powered by Blackwood’s CleverCogs digital system, a tablet device that ensures customers receive timely assistance, whether for medication reminders, NHS virtual GP access, wellbeing check-ins, or emergency support. CleverCogs serves as a central hub for care management, communication, health monitoring, and home automation, enhancing accessibility and digital inclusion.

A Testament to Team Effort and Innovation

Jason MacGilp, Chief Executive Officer at Blackwood Homes and Care, emphasized the collaborative nature of this achievement: "From the ongoing design right through to support, our 24/7 digital responder service is a huge team effort. This award is a testament to that and our shared desire to improve the lives of people throughout the country."

Since its pilot launch in 2016, the 24/7 responder service has expanded significantly, now providing 3,500 hours of digital care across six supported living services to more than 350 customers each week. The innovation ensures an emergency response within 20 minutes, delivered by locally based SSSC registered staff.

Transforming Lives Across Scotland

The impact of Blackwood's technology-enabled care has been profound. Individuals who previously relied heavily on emergency services now have instant access to dedicated support, reducing unnecessary interventions and improving their overall wellbeing. One staff member noted, "Technology-enabled care is not about gadgets—it’s about improving lives. Our customers feel more secure, more independent, and more connected, knowing support is available at any time."

Aligning with Scotland’s Digital Health and Care Strategy, Blackwood's approach demonstrates how technology can revolutionize care provision and support individuals to live independently in their own homes. Their award-winning digital care model sets a benchmark for technology-enabled independent living in Scotland’s housing and care sectors.

For more information on Blackwood Homes & Care's initiatives read more here.