In partnership with Alcove, Richmond Council is providing Video Carephone devices to vulnerable people to help tackle loneliness and social isolation.

Richmond residents can apply for easy-to-use video communication tablets, which allow people with little to no technological experience to keep in touch with their loved ones and carers.

Through these devices, people you care about that are currently feeling isolated can make calls to family, friends and other service providers. This in turn helps care workers to carry out their work more efficiently, allowing them to perform tasks that do not require face-to-face visits.

Cllr Piers Allen, Lead Member for Adult Social Care and Health and Chair of the Health & Wellbeing Board said:

"Since the start of the pandemic, technology has played an incredibly important role to keep people connected and to help improve feelings of loneliness and isolation.

"Alcove Video Carephones are not only helping vulnerable residents speak to their loved ones but are also improving the delivery of care and other support services."

Alcove Carephones have already made a noticeable difference to isolated local residents, with the average Carephone user making more than 3 calls a day.

One Richmond resident, Ms P, told Richmond Council: "It's been a lifeline; it's been so useful."

Ms P lives alone, unable to see her family due to the pandemic and feeling increasingly disconnected from society and her loved ones.

After being referred by the Council, she received a Carephone 2 days later and was able to start making calls to her daughter, son and granddaughter immediately. She told the council she was delighted to "be able to see my children on video".

Alcove Video Carephones are being given out to those who need them for free, so if you know someone that could benefit from one of these devices, please email [email protected].