The MECS and the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) call handling system that serves the area have been replaced with a new end-to-end digital system as part of a national collaboration that is delivering a common platform across Scotland.
The Clackmannanshire and Stirling Health and Social Care Partnership is among the first in Scotland to have completed this key project, which is being led nationally by the Digital Office, as part of the switchover from analogue.
Over 3,500 users across Stirling and Clackmannanshire now have a telecare service that comprises a digital alarm unit, pendant, and peripheral devices within people’s homes, which communicate via the mobile phone network or internet connection, to the digital ARC, and any help they may need.
Service users can activate the alarm day or night and speak to the ARC call handlers, and if necessary be assisted at home by MECS Responders.
'Significantly enhanced'
The benefits of the full MECS digitalisation include:
- No interruption to services as local telephone exchanges are switched from analogue to digital
- A simpler, more cost-effective and reliable service
- More tailored support for users to help them live more independent lives at home for longer
- Improved resilience during major events
Interim Chief Officer of the Clackmannanshire and Stirling Health and Social Care Partnership, Joanna MacDonald said: “This new system will significantly enhance the MECS teams’ ability to support vulnerable people across Stirling and Clackmannanshire. It will enable them to provide more reliable and efficient assistance to service users and create opportunities to introduce a greater range of support technologies in their homes over time.
“The 24-7 Customer Service team and the MECS teams have demonstrated unwavering support and dedication in implementing the new MECS system while continuing to maintain their usual high standards of customer service. Their hard work and commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition and the successful deployment of this new digital platform, an achievement they should be incredibly proud of.”