Helping care homes with their IT

In the complex world of care homes, where every detail counts towards the well-being of both residents and staff, the need for, and the role of technology cannot be overstated. Middleton Hall Care Home in Uphall, Livingston, is a great example of this and lets you see how thoughtful IT solutions make a real difference.

As an experienced IT specialist, I’ve had the privilege of delivering several projects like Middleton Hall, where empathy and efficiency converge to create a seamless IT solution.

Understanding the client’s needs

For me, my work always starts by taking time to really understand the client’s needs.  Middleton Hall Care Home presented a unique challenge.  It’s century-old, three-storey building that had an outdated IT infrastructure and a (self-confessed) lack of investment in technology. Despite the pressing need for modernisation, there was clearly a need to take the human element into account.  This is something traditional IT companies often overlook, focusing solely on technical solutions. That’s where my approach is different.  I approached this project with a dual commitment—to deliver a reliable IT system and to enhance the daily lives of both staff and residents.

The business need

With over 30 rooms spread across three floors, Middleton Hall Care Home required more than just a patchwork IT solution. Patients’ records transitioning online demanded real-time updates, while the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of reliable connectivity for video calls and remote communication with families not to mention reliable streaming for movie nights. The existing setup relied on inadequate internet connectivity and scattered wireless boosters, leading to inefficiency, frustrated staff and disappointed residents.

Client interaction and decision-making process

Typically, clients like Middleton Hall Care Home reach out to me because they’ve been referred by someone who’s already worked with me to find a solution to their IT woes. In this case, the finance director, driven by dissatisfaction with their current provider, initiated contact. Understanding the financial constraints within the care system, I prioritised transparent communication and cost-effective solutions. Through detailed consultations and streamlined project plans, they were quickly able see the benefits and processes involved.

Overcoming obstacles and delivering value

In persuading care home management to invest in IT upgrades, the challenge lies in illustrating the tangible benefits beyond mere connectivity. By concentrating on improved staff efficiency, enhanced resident care, seamless communication with families and uninterrupted movies, my aim is to bridge the gap between technical upgrades and real-world impact. Through simplified plans and clear communication, my aim is always to demystify complex IT solutions, and make them accessible and actionable for all stakeholders.

Why Choose Carness as your Care Home IT Solution?

Choosing the right IT specialist for a care home is more than a technical decision—it’s a people thing – it’s about a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and staff alike. At Middleton Hall Care Home and beyond, my approach goes way beyond the conventional IT mindset, prioritising empathy, efficiency, and empowerment.

With a proven track record of success and a dedication to client satisfaction, I’m here and ready to transform your care home’s IT landscape for the better – reach out now and let’s chat.

What our clients think

Five stars
Running a care home is about making sure residents are happy and comfortable, and that the staff have the tools they need to do their jobs well and efficiently. Our previous owners, were a corporate care company, who due to their financial constraints, we felt, dismissed the concerns raised about the IT services we were receiving and we ended up with an IT system not fit for purpose. We transferred to new owners recently, who listened and realised that the systems we had weren’t suitable to provide the level of care and support required now and in the future. Our previous owners never really invested in the infrastructure, meaning we were unaware of the importance of good connectivity for both staff and residents, due to the fact we had not experienced this. Over the years residents became frustrated when they couldn’t stream films or communicate the way they wanted to with loved ones using video calls, but we were unable to offer a solution. This was especially brought to light when the pandemic hit. Staff were also struggling to get the connectivity they needed to work with the efficient real time systems we’d put in place and could only get internet in certain areas, with slow and unreliable equipment. Fortunately, when the new owners took us over, we started looking at improvements that could be made and Scott was recommended by another Care Home company. With Scott on board, we are now happy to say that all our IT boxes are ticked, in both network coverage, a reliable supported system and of course, with a smile.

Ann Simpson
General Manager, Middleton Hall