Innovators receive tech grants to improve the lives of older islanders

Three tech projects have been awarded government-funded grants to improve the lives of older people in Jersey.

The 'CareTech Challenge' was launched in autumn last year, funded by the Government of Jersey, and delivered by Digital Jersey.

READ: £2m offered to create technology to support Jersey's older people 

The programme offers a total of £2 million in grant funding to innovators to develop tech tools supporting and address the health, independence and safety of Jersey's increasing population of older people.

All received bids have been assessed by Jersey-based and off-island judges.

The first three successful proposals are:

Orchid Connect's solution integrates sensors, intelligent insights, and user friendly tools to transform how care is delivered in a preventative rather that reactive approach. 

 Orchid Connect (l-r):  Nigel De La Haye, Laura Tomita, Adam Chamberlain, Paula Perestrelo and James Ahier

Good Boost aims to transform community spaces into hubs for healthy ageing, mobility and independence. 

Good Boost: Ben Wilkins

Lifestyle Medicine is launching the 'Hero of Health Jersey App' to help older adults connect, live, and thrive in their communities. The App connects users to local services and provides access to online resources and in-person coaching. The app will be rolled out across the island, starting with GP surgeries, the General hospital and voluntary services. 

Lifestyle Medicine: Lauren Perchard-Rees and Dr Jo Darwood

Lauren Perchard-Rees from Lifestyle Medicine says they are so passionate about their project:

"We're absolutely delighted. It gives us the opportunity to scale this project much quicker than we would be able to off our own backs.

"It's something we're really passionate about, Jersey has such an opportunity to connect neighbourhoods to help them heal."

Tony Moretta, CEO of Digital Jersey says he 'really excited' by the 'impact' the chosen projects will have in Jersey.

“These three successful projects are a reflection of the power of the Impact Jersey initiative, to bring leading minds together to implement tech-driven solutions that can improve the lives of islanders – in this case the care of older people in our community."

Deputy Kirsten Morel, Minister for Sustainable Economic Development, says the CareTech challenge is important tool for addressing the challenges that an ageing demography will bring.

"I’m delighted that these initial projects, which all blend cutting-edge technology with a clear understanding of our specific community needs, have been given the opportunity to make a real difference as part of our long-term healthcare strategy.”