Case Study: Connectivity Solution for Remote Rural Property by Inverclyde HSCP

BACKGROUND

This case study provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and solutions encountered by an 83-year-old telecare service user residing alone on a remote farm in Inverclyde. The individual, living with several medical conditions, depended on twice-daily visits from Social Care Workers through the Care and Support at Home service. Since 2017, the property had been equipped with an analogue community alarm to ensure her safety and facilitate emergency support. However, as Inverclyde HSCP prepared for a nationwide transition from analogue to digital telecare systems, the property’s extremely poor mobile signal became a critical obstacle. The lack of reliable mobile connectivity meant that standard digital telecare devices were unable to function effectively at the site, and existing suppliers could not offer a digital solution that would work in this environment. This highlighted not only the technological gap in rural telecare provision, but also the vulnerability of individuals living in isolated areas who depend on continuous support.

SITUATION

In response to this problem, Inverclyde HSCP initiated discussions with Archangel, a supplier specialising in LoRa (Long Range) technology designed for low-signal environments. LoRa technology operates independently of traditional cellular networks, making it well-suited for rural or remote locations where mobile coverage is weak or unreliable. After careful planning, technicians from Archangel and Inverclyde HSCP arranged a site visit and, on November 20, 2024, successfully installed a LoRa-enabled device at the service user’s home. This collaborative effort involved representatives from multiple suppliers, including Tynetec and Telealarm, who worked together to address the unique challenges of the site. Although the service user was soon admitted to hospital and sadly passed away, the project achieved a significant milestone: the installation proved that a digital telecare connection could be established where none had been possible before. The demonstration confirmed the viability of LoRa technology for supporting telecare services in rural areas.

OUTCOME

The project successfully identified and implemented a connectivity solution for one of Inverclyde’s most remote properties, a breakthrough that would have enabled the installation of a digital alarm system for the service user and now offers a practical alternative for other rural properties facing similar connectivity challenges. The demonstration of LoRa technology has opened doors for telecare providers, allowing them to serve individuals living in areas previously thought unreachable by digital solutions. This outcome not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for future expansion of telecare services in rural and isolated communities, ensuring that vulnerable residents can continue to access vital support as technology evolves.

LESSONS LEARNED

The analogue-to-digital switchover process brought to light connectivity challenges that had previously been overlooked, highlighting the necessity for thorough site assessments before upgrading telecare systems. This experience underscored the importance of collaboration across multiple suppliers and stakeholders, as their combined expertise and resources were essential for finding and implementing a workable solution. The successful application of LoRa technology demonstrates its promise for connecting isolated properties and maintaining consistent telecare support in areas where traditional mobile networks fail. Moving forward, early identification of potential barriers, such as connectivity issues, is crucial to ensure that telecare users remain safe and supported, regardless of their location. The project serves as a valuable example for other organisations facing similar challenges, emphasising that innovative approaches and teamwork can overcome even the most difficult obstacles in the provision of digital health and social care services.

PARTICIPANTS

TEC Manager (Inverclyde HSCP), TEC Technicians (Inverclyde HSCP), Tynetec Representative, Telealarm Representative, Archangel Representative

DATE

October 2024 – April 2025