Care technology developer, Person Centred Software, has upgraded its Relatives Gateway platform with video calling to keep residents connected with loved ones during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Developed for care providers, residents and families, Person Centred Software’s Relatives Gateway platform has been upgraded to incorporate video calling functionality.
It follows a 50% surge in usage of the solution since the COVID-19 outbreak began, and a huge increase in phone calls to homes from families requesting updates on their loved ones.
The feature is being offered free of charge to the UK’s 18,500-plus care providers.
It uses a unique code entry system, eliminating the need for homes to set up separate log-in profiles on third-party accounts for every single resident.
And it makes it simple for carers to manage communication, and will keep elderly residents in touch with family during a hugely-challenging time for the sector.
Person Centred Software worked quickly to create and release a free version of the platform for all UK homes at the end of March. And the new video calling functionality will also be free of charge for the duration of the pandemic.
Jonathan Papworth, founder and director, said: “Despite the best efforts of all in our sector, many care residents remain cut off from loved ones on the outside.
“A major challenge care homes face is time setting up and securing individual resident profiles on third-party video calling platforms.
“Many care homes are understandably experiencing high volumes of calls from families requesting updates about loved ones, and this is taking care staff away from looking after residents.
“That is why we have updated Relatives Gateway with a video link tool. It is fast to set-up, GDPR compliant, easy to manage and available to use right now, free of charge.”
Even before the release of the video integration, in the past month usage of Relatives Gateway has increased 50%. There are now more than 5,200 monthly users.
Papworth said: “The updated Relatives Gateway platform could help overcome feelings of loneliness and enable relatives and loved ones to stay in contact. We are delighted to have the video link feature live and hope it helps at this challenging time.”
