Shared Alarm Receiving Centre Platform

The Shared ARC Platform is a national programme led by the Digital Office to provide Scottish telecare service providers with a shared alarm receiving centre technology solution. After a rigorous procurement tender evaluation, the contract was awarded to Chubb Fire and Security Limited for their cloud-based platform, Chubb Cloud Care Control, powered by Skyresponse. This decision reflects widespread confidence in the platform's ability to revolutionise telecare services.

The Shared Alarm Receiving Centre technology solution exemplifies the transformative potential of collaborative innovation in telecare. Developed through engagement with 13 early adopters - and over 65 stakeholders — including local authorities, housing associations, and government bodies — the platform enables seamless integration of digital devices, enhancing personalisation, choice, and control for service users. Its robust cloud-based design fosters scalability, proactive care, and operational efficiency, while addressing cybersecurity and disaster recovery needs. By driving uptake of TEC and reducing barriers to digital transformation, the Shared ARC Platform sets a new standard for telecare partnerships.

The Shared ARC serves as a dynamic platform for innovation and service excellence. By empowering telecare service providers and stakeholders to collaborate and drive transformative solutions, the Shared ARC Platform revolutionises telecare delivery and support for service users across Scotland, setting new standards for service improvement. 

The Shared ARC Programme team brought together individuals from local and national government, collaborating with Scotland Excel, early adopters, and external experts from the Scottish Government, NHS NSS, and technical consultants. The inclusive approach of the Digital Office and Scotland Excel, particularly in navigating legal and procurement complexities, has been key to its success.

The platform, secured through the Digital Telecare Assessed Solution Scheme, reduces the technical burden on telecare providers, offering a scalable, cyber-resilient solution. Developed as a one-size-fits-all model, it supports improved working practices across social care and health, enhancing the citizen experience. 

With a coordination and management function built-in, the Shared ARC ensures partners work harmoniously to leverage digital opportunities. Continued collaboration with national and local governments and suppliers ensures the platform evolves with service users’ needs.

The new platform is a cloud-based, interoperable system, providing the foundation for a fully digital, future-proofed telecare service across Scotland. It significantly aids Telecare Service Providers in their transition from analogue to digital, ahead of the 2025 switch-off. This platform supports the integration of digital health and care services, marking a milestone in the sector.

While offering the benefits of a shared system, it allows organisations to maintain autonomy, tailoring the platform to suit their specific needs and environments. This flexibility ensures that providers can customise their digital care solutions while benefiting from the efficiency, scalability, and security of a unified platform.