Blantyre LIFE is setting a new benchmark for digital health and care innovation, following a visit by Health and Social Care Cabinet Secretary Neil Gray MSP, who praised the “real integration” of technology and community-based support.
Mr Gray was welcomed by Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, Head of Health and Social Care, Paul O’Neill, Integration Joint Board Vice Chair Lesley McDonald and colleagues from Blantyre LIFE.
The Cabinet Secretary met with staff and service users who are benefiting from technology designed to help them remain safely at home and received an overview of the site’s pioneering digital work, which includes a suite of smart health technologies and a ground-breaking Amazon-powered healthcare pilot.
Mr Gray said: “This is exactly the kind of preventative, community-based approach we need to see in the NHS and across social care services across Scotland. What’s been particularly impressive is the real integration of services and how closely Blantyre LIFE is connected to the local community.
“The use of digital innovation here offers real potential to transform care and empower people to manage their health more independently.”
Paul O’Neill said: “Blantyre LIFE is setting a new standard in digital health and care innovation through a series of pioneering technology initiatives aimed at transforming patient outcomes and integrated care delivery.
“Among the most exciting developments is the introduction of an Amazon-powered healthcare pilot, which includes the use of Alexa-enabled devices and wearable monitoring systems to support virtual wards and enhance personalised care.
“We’re also preparing to launch a Technologically Enriched Rehabilitation Gym here at Blantyre LIFE in partnership with the University of Strathclyde – a specialist facility that will provide stroke survivors with greater access to evidence-based rehabilitation and support recovery after hospital discharge. It’s another example of how we’re using innovation to improve outcomes and quality of life in the heart of the community.”
Professor Soumen Sengupta added: “Our digital initiatives are not just about deploying technology, they are about changing lives. By harnessing digital tools in a thoughtful and person-centred way, we are equipping individuals with greater control over their health and wellbeing, helping them to recover faster, stay well for longer, and remain connected to their communities.
“This kind of digital enablement doesn’t replace human care, it enhances it. And crucially, it strengthens our capacity to deliver safe, sustainable and integrated services that truly meet people’s needs.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the staff who are driving the deployment of these technologies with such skill and commitment – and to local people for the enthusiasm and openness with which they are embracing new ways of receiving care and support.”
Lesley McDonald said: “The innovation we are showcasing at Blantyre LIFE reflects our commitment to transforming how care is delivered, shifting away from reactive models to more proactive, preventative support.
“The digital programme here is central to our mission of delivering forward-thinking, personalised care that helps people stay well at home, regain confidence, and return to their own homes with greater independence and control.
“Blantyre LIFE is just one example of how our local leadership team is championing and delivering innovative, community-based services that are changing lives across South Lanarkshire.
“I warmly welcome the encouragement of the Cabinet Secretary and his recognition of the considerable work underway across our area to support timely discharge from hospital and ensure people receive the right support at home.”
