New centre in Solihull demonstrates gadgets for better lives

A new ‘demonstration home’ where people can test out gadgets which could help them to lead healthier and more independent lives has opened in Solihull.

The Better Living Centre at Elmdon Trading Estate features a kitchen, living room, bathroom and bedroom where people can try equipment including a stair lift and specialist furniture, as well as gadgets for making daily tasks such as preparing food and drink easier.

Run by Solihull Council in partnership with Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group and Solihull Community Housing, the centre aims to help disabled people of all ages as well as older adults, to remain as independent as possible in their own homes.

The centre provides assistance to anyone regardless of their financial situation – some people may be eligible for support to purchase equipment whilst others will be offered advice about buying their own.

Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Ken Meeson said: “We want to give people more choice and control over the support they receive to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

“For the first time, people will be able to try out equipment in a realistic setting, guided by trained staff who will listen to their needs and offer advice.

“By empowering people to remain independent, we can help prevent them from being admitted to hospital or into a care home unnecessarily and give them the opportunity stay in the familiar environment of their own home.”

Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Glenis Slater who officially opened the centre on Monday (22nd February) added: “The centre offers everything under one roof, making it much easier for people to get the advice and practical solutions that they need to support their daily lives or recover from illness, injury or ongoing health problems.

“I would urge anyone planning for later life, already struggling with everyday tasks or carers to visit the centre and find out what support is available.”

The Centre is the new home for the Community Equipment and Wheelchair service, the Gadgets team, and Safe and Sound who provide a 24 hour response service to vulnerable people.

The Better Living Centre (Unit 4, Elmdon Trading Estate, Bickenhill Lane, Solihull B37 7HE) is open Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.

For further information: www.solihull.mylifeportal.co.uk/betterlivingcentre or call: 0121 329 0909.

Photo: The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Glenis Slater at the opening of the Better Living Centre with Councillor Ken Meeson, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing and Councillor Karen Grinsell, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities and Partnerships.

Read more: http://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/ArtMID/820/ArticleID/1115/New-centre-demos-gadgets-for-better-lives