It is likely that in the coming weeks, Telecare Services will face an increased demand, whilst potentially experiencing staff shortages and changes in working conditions. Staff involved in monitoring, installation and responding will have to adopt new ways of working to manage additional risk and ensure service continuity.
Increased demand may include:
In the first instance, the TEC Programme and the Local Government Digital Office Digital Telecare teams have compiled guidance, which aims to support local service continuity planning.
The document contains contingency plans you may want to consider locally. They are subject to local risk assessment and decision making and will need to be considered in the context of wider planning and arrangements in your organisation and area.
They should be considered alongside information issued by the Scottish Government, Health Protection Scotland and NHS inform.
If you have any questions or require further information, please contact NSS.TEC@nhs.net.