As technology is being used more frequently within health and social care settings, the Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) has launched a survey to explore whether GP services are being accessed digitally, and how many people in the Black Country may not have access to a digital device or connectivity or need support to improve their access, experience and outcomes.
The Black Country ICB would like to hear from as many people as possible about their experiences and any barriers faced, in accessing digital resources for their health and care needs. This will help guide future digital projects and if there is more the Board can do to support people to access digital tools, help and advice.
There are different reasons why people do not have access to a device or digital connectivity, and for some this may be by choice. Exploring the different reasons, will be invaluable to understand what help may be provided.
As this is a digital survey, we encourage you to share this opportunity with any relatives, friends, neighbours or groups who may not be online/ don’t have a digital device and may need support to complete the survey. This could be in one of the following ways:
How to complete the survey
By completing the online survey, with the help of someone who has a device or can complete it on your behalf if needed at: https://forms.office.com/e/dN7Nr2uDSF
By completing the survey over the phone – Please contact 0121 612 1447, and the ICB will arrange a call-back from the Digital Inequalities Team
By printing or requesting paper copies of this survey to share with any groups you may belong to, whom this survey might apply – please send requests directly to emma.sharman@nhs.net
Please note this survey is open until 31st March 2025.
We’re excited to announce that, thanks to the support of the Good Things Foundation, Forward Carers has 30 brand-new tablets available to give to Carers who demonstrate a need. These tablets can provide valuable access to online resources, support networks, and tools that can make your caring responsibilities a little easier.
How to Apply
To ensure these tablets go to Carers who need them most, we’ve set up a simple application process. You’ll need to fill in a form that helps us understand your situation and how you would benefit from having a tablet. The form will ask about:
- Your need: Why do you need a tablet? Is it for accessing online support, managing medical appointments, or staying connected with friends and family?
- How you plan to use it: Will it help you manage your caring responsibilities, access Carer resources, or improve your wellbeing?
- The benefits: How do you see this tablet making a positive impact on your role as a Carer?
After completing the form, you will be notified if you’ve been selected to receive a tablet. If successful, you will be able to collect your tablet from Touchbase Pears in Selly Oak at a convenient time.
Ongoing Support and Feedback
We’re committed to ensuring that Carers feel supported in using digital tools. After six weeks, we’ll be in touch with a quick feedback form. This will help us understand how the tablet has been beneficial to you, allowing us to measure the impact of this initiative and continue improving our support for Carers.
How to Apply
Complete this online form and provide as much information as possible to support your need for a tablet. A paper version of the form is available here, if this is easier for you to complete and post. If you are printed and posting your form, please send to: Forward Carers, TouchBase Pears, 750 Bristol Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 6NA.
By providing tablets, we aim to reduce digital exclusion among Carers, helping you stay connected, informed, and better equipped in your role. If you have any questions, please contact us via bernie.huntingdon@forwardcarers.org.uk. We look forward to hearing how these tablets will make a difference to you!
The deadline to submit your application is Sunday 20 October 2024.