Smethwick Agewell Local Forum Report

Date of Meeting: 24th April 2008

Main activities / discussion

We had a visit from Daphne Lewsley, the Foundation Project Manager and another colleague from Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHT Trust . They were telling us about the hospitals' plan to become a Foundation Trust. We were also invited to become members of the new Foundation Trust

We had a visit from Martin Filsak from the Telecare Project. Telecare is the use of technology to support people to stay independent and to live longer in their own homes. He demonstrated a variety of electronic equipment to us. It all seemed very useful and got us thinking about the kinds of electronic devices that would be useful. There were two devices that you are able to receive free of charge without a professional referral. One helps to turn a lamp on remotely so you don't trip if you wake in the night and get out of bed. The other, known as the SHED and is unique to Sandwell, is a verbal reminder to you when the room is either getting too hot or too cold. For all the others, you need a referral and assessment.

We also received some booklets about the Mental Capacity Act. This Act relates to people who can not make decisions for themselves, either on a temporary or permanent basis, and sets out how you can make sure your wishes are met should you be in such a situation.

Any decisions made

Feedback from Agewell Sandwell Meeting

Points raised: None.

Other issues discussed

Date of next meeting and venue.

Issues to take back to Agewell Sandwell