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Neath Port Talbot Council’s Digital Enablement Service visits individuals in their homes to assess whether they could benefit from technology to make day-to-day tasks easier. Each session is tailored to the person’s abilities and interests, ensuring the support meets their needs.

The types of technology available include:

• Smart bulbs and plugs – Control your lights and devices remotely using your smartphone or voice commands.
• Smart buttons – Control multiple smart devices in your home with a single press of a button.
• MiFi hubs – A portable device to enable access to the internet.
• Alexa Dots – Use voice commands to control a remote speaker to play music, access radio stations, news, weather, and more.

Staff from the service can visit people for up to an hour once a week, depending on their confidence in using the technology. They will also help set up all the technology in the person’s home and teach them how to use it.

One resident who has used the service said, “Everything has changed for the better. The Digital Enablement Service has given us so much confidence and independence.”

Councillor Jo Hale, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services & Health, said: “We want all residents to be able to access the digital world and to feel comfortable doing so.

“However, there are still people who are unable to use digital technology. This means they are missing out on access to technology that could help them with everyday tasks.

“That is why we’re encouraging people who are interested in finding out how they could benefit from technology around the house to get in touch with our NPT Digital Enablement Service.

“As a council, we are committed to improving the digital skills of people of all ages and abilities so everyone can enjoy the benefits of modern technology.”

The service also features a “Digital Solutions Suite” located at Cimla Health and Social Care Centre. Here, visitors can explore the latest technology designed to help people live independently at home. The suite also offers a loan service, allowing people to take digital products home for a trial period before deciding whether to purchase them.

To book a home visit from the service, email Digitalenablement@npt.gov.uk or call 01639 686636.

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.