The Care Forum (TCF) is proud to announce that a collaborative project has been awarded funding by LEAP Digital Health Hub. TCF will be working alongside Dr Lis Grey from the University of Bristol, the University of Bath, and Play Well for Life to undertake a transformative project aimed at addressing the growing challenge of loneliness among vulnerable populations. To develop high-tech solutions that support those most affected by loneliness, including neurodivergent teenagers, individuals living with Parkinson’s disease or dementia, and their informal carers.
This pioneering initiative combines academic expertise, cutting-edge technology, and real-world insights from the people directly impacted by these conditions. By collaborating with local communities and stakeholders, the project ensures that the solutions being developed are both innovative and deeply relevant to the needs of those they serve.
Kevin Peltonen-Messenger, CEO of The Care Forum, emphasized the importance of this work in the following statement:
“At The Care Forum (TCF), we are delighted to collaborate with the University of Bristol, the University of Bath, and Play Well for Life on this vital initiative to tackle loneliness. By working directly with those most affected, including neurodivergent teenagers, people with Parkinson’s or dementia, and their informal carers, we can co-design technological solutions that are both innovative and impactful. This partnership exemplifies the power of collective action in creating meaningful change for our communities.”
TCF’s commitment to addressing loneliness and isolation is central to its mission to improve the lives of people across the region. By combining technology with a person-centred approach, the project aims to create sustainable solutions that enhance social inclusion, provide emotional support, and foster connections within at-risk groups.
LEAP is an EPSRC-funded Digital Health Hub that aims to cultivate a multidisciplinary, entrepreneurial, cross-sector Digital Health community in South West England and Wales. TCFs collaborative initiative will support the Hub’s aim to increase digital health capability and address unmet health and social care needs across the region.