SCIE Chair Burstow calls for WiFi in every care home

SCIE chair Paul Burstow has called for WiFi to be installed in every care home as part of a new technology drive within social care.

In an exclusive interview with CHP, Paul said the Government should include a pledge to help the sector become fully WIFi-enabled within its Social Care Green Paper.

“The Green Paper has to be talking about supporting the sector in becoming fully WiFi enabled,” Paul said.

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Only 16% of care homes currently have WiFi, meaning three out of five residents do not have access to the Internet.

“The vast majority of 65-74 year olds are using the Internet,” Paul said.

“This means that something that is seen as part of their everyday life, which helps them keep in touch with their families, is often suddenly being taken away.”

Since his appointment in July, Minister of State for Health and Care Matt Hancock has highlighted the importance of technology in enhancing care quality, commenting: “Technology used right is a catalyst for greater connectivity and empowerment.

“Not only can the right use of technology save time and money, it can improve patient safety.”

After several delays, the Government has pledged to publish its Green Paper this autumn.