Delivered by OneWolverhampton in partnership between the City of Wolverhampton Council, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, and other key partners, the project has been recognised for its transformative impact on residents, carers, and frontline staff, showing how locally led, joined up digital care can deliver better outcomes and long term value.
Funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) under the 5G Innovation Region scheme, the trial is supporting people across the city through the introduction of video care phones, falls prevention technologies, smart sensors, and virtual care calls. Together, these innovations are helping people to live more independently and safely in their own homes.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, Cabinet Member for Adults, said: “Being a finalist at the HSJ Awards celebrates Wolverhampton’s shift from traditional, reactive care models to a personalised, preventative and digital first care system that empowers residents and supports frontline teams.
“It also recognises the hard work, innovation and partnership that’s gone into transforming how we deliver care in Wolverhampton, and is testament to the dedication of our teams and the power of working together. We’ve shown that when digital tools are thoughtfully integrated, they don’t just support care – they transform lives.
“We would also like to thank WM5G, Alcove and Rethink Partners for their support with the project.”
Stephanie Cartwright, Chief Community and Partnerships Officer for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and a OneWolverhampton Board member, added: “This is fantastic news and a proud moment for everyone involved. It shows what can be achieved when health, social care and community partners come together with a shared goal – improving quality of life for our residents. Congratulations to everyone who’s made this success possible.”
More than 200 residents have already benefited from Technology Enabled Care solutions in the city, with 78% reporting increased independence and 66% an improved quality of life.
Wolverhampton resident Carol, who has vascular dementia, is among those supported and her daughter, Caroline. She said: “This technology is like having a friend. I don’t feel alone, I feel safe, and that’s given me a lot of confidence both in and out of the house.”
A key part of the programme’s success has been the introduction of Digital Care Navigators, who have supported staff training, care planning, and cultural change across frontline services.
Delivered in collaboration with Alcove, Rethink Partners, and WM5G, and supported by DSIT, the project continues to share its learning regionally and nationally – setting a new standard for integrated, digital first care.
This year’s HSJ Awards attracted more than 1,250 entries from across the health and care sector, with Wolverhampton’s shortlisting marking a powerful endorsement of its pioneering approach to social care.
