Tunstall - Adopting The Right Technology To Transform Social Care

This report from the County Councils Network (CCN), produced in partnership with Tunstall, explores how digital and assistive technologies can transform adult social care by improving outcomes for citizens while easing pressure on councils, the NHS and the wider workforce.

Building on the 2021 CCN report Employing Assistive Technology in Adult Social Care, it reflects the growing priority given to technology within national social care reform and the funding made available through Integrated Care Systems.

The report argues that technology should be person‑centred, preventative and outcomes‑focused, rather than adopted simply for efficiency. It highlights the importance of aligning local authority systems with health partners, supporting cultural change within organisations, and ensuring that digital solutions work reliably in care users’ homes.  

While technology has the potential to significantly increase capacity and reduce demand for crisis care, the CCN stresses that benefits will only be realised through strategic investment, strong leadership and close collaboration with providers, carers and service users.

Recommendations for local authorities include:

• Place technology at the centre of adult social care strategies, aligned with wider service reform and prevention goals.
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• Invest in digital systems that streamline access, assessment and care planning, reducing bureaucracy and staff workload.
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• Prioritise preventative and predictive technologies that help keep people independent for longer.
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• Ensure integration and co‑commissioning with health partners, using Integrated Care Systems as coordinating bodies.