A new award-winning assistive technology service is now being offered to residents across Hertfordshire — including in Hitchin — to help people live independently at home while giving families and carers greater peace of mind.

Hertfordshire County Council has begun rolling out its innovative assistive system, Data Inspired Living, which was developed by the council's social care teams and recognised with a national award for social care innovation at the LGC Awards in 2024. Previously used by council professionals, the technology is now accessible to local people and their carers thanks to a new partnership with Herts Careline.

How It Works

Data Inspired Living uses small, discreet sensors placed around the home — such as motion detectors and smart plugs — to build a picture of someone's normal daily routine. If the system detects something out of the ordinary, like missed medication or reduced movement, it sends alerts to family members or carers via an online dashboard.

Importantly for local families, the system doesn't record sound or video and is meant simply to support independence while keeping privacy intact.

Affordable and Supportive

Thanks to a subsidy from the county council, the service costs just £10.50 a week, which also includes access to the Herts Careline Telecare Service — a 24/7 personal alarm and support system for emergencies.

The council assesses each person's needs before agreeing on the right mix of sensors and support, and installs everything in the home with the resident's consent.

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Council Response

Cllr Sally Symington, Executive Member for Adult Care Services at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "We are always looking to find innovative solutions to support people to maintain their independence for as long as possible … it is fantastic that families and carers can now get more peace of mind and help their loved ones stay safe and well at home."

What This Means for Hitchin

For people in Hitchin and surrounding villages, this means a new option to support independent living at home, especially for older residents or those with health conditions. Families and carers now have extra reassurance that everyday routines are being monitored and that they'll be alerted if anything unusual occurs.

To find out more or make an enquiry, residents can visit the council's website or contact Adult Care services for an assessment.