Our mission is to play a leading role for East Kent in developing the economic and social prosperity of the diverse communities we serve.
EKC Broadstairs College officially launched the new Assistive Technology Room on Thursday 20 January, showcasing the latest innovations designed to support individuals with diverse needs. The event welcomed stakeholders from the Health and Social Care sector, offering them an opportunity to explore how assistive technologies can enhance both education and professional practice.
The event began with an introduction from Principal, Paul Owen, who provided an overview of the College’s role in developing industry-relevant training. Followed by an introduction to the Government LSIF project, highlighting why the College is prioritising assistive technology courses; supporting a future where every healthcare professional has the digital confidence to navigate the complexities of a technology-driven healthcare system.

During the event, Deputy Principal, Nicola Tumber, explained: “The Health and Social Care sector is evolving rapidly, and Assistive Technology is playing a crucial role in that transformation. By integrating these new technologies, we can empower more service-users to maintain their independence at home while also giving families greater peace of mind.
“Providing these courses is essential because technology is already shaping the future of care. We want our students to develop a patient-centred mindset, understanding not just how to use the equipment, but how it impacts the quality of life for those they support. And we want to assist our stakeholders to improve service delivery and ensure their staff are equipped with the skills to provide the best possible care.
“After today’s event, I hope our stakeholders can see the real-world impact of Assistive Technology and recognise the value of training their teams in its use. By upskilling their workforce, they can enhance the independence of their clients, improve care outcomes, and future-proof their services in an increasingly digital world.”

Attendees at the event were given a full tour of the impressive Assistive Technology Room, where they saw live demonstrations of cutting-edge equipment, including: a Therapy Seal, a robotic, interactive comfort aid that was particularly popular among guests; fingerprint-enabled door locks; and automated lighting and voice-controlled prompts, all programmed through accessible apps on smart tablets, TVs and phones. These aids demonstrate how a fully connected environment can assist service-users to maintain independence, assist care professionals with general tasks such as closing windows and even help to ensure properties remain safe and secure.
Throughout the event, stakeholders were encouraged to consider how these technologies could be implemented in professional care settings such as residential and sheltered living, and supporting individuals living at home.

Amongst the guests was Shelley, Team Leader at Bradstow Court, Broadstairs who commented: “Today has been amazing. The modern technology and services now available to service-users within our environment could be life changing.
“I’m keen to speak to my manager about implementing some of the technology we’ve seen today. Not only will it help our service-users maintain dignity and independence, but it could also help to save the company money on resources.”

In addition, Shelley’s colleague, Lindsay said, “I didn’t know what to expect from today, but it’s been mind-blowing. I think so many of these aids could help so many people, not only within our care setting, but also within the local community.
“I’m particularly impressed with the voice prompts that can be sent through the TV. I can see the real benefits to this technology and how it could help so many people. I also fell in love with Monty [the Therapy Seal], everyone could benefit from having a Monty!”

Assistive technology is transforming the way people with disabilities and additional needs interact with their environment. From improving independence to enhancing care provision, these tools help individuals lead more accessible and independent lives. By focusing on Assistive Technology courses, the College aims to ensure that students and industry professionals gain hands-on experience with the latest innovations, preparing them for real-world applications.
Take advantage of this new suite of courses, ideal for those with an interested in, or already working with the sector.