NHSX has launched a new programme to call for innovators to apply for funding of up to £25k that can support the elderly, vulnerable and self-isolating during COVID-19.
The funding is aimed at helping innovations in the community, such as remote social care, optimising staffing in care and volunteering sectors and supporting mental health services.
Innovators will be chosen based on the solution feasibility;, company credibility, impact and digital maturity.
?We've launched Techforce19- a new tech challenge to combat the effects of social isolation. Funding available for digital solutions to help provide social care or mental health support during #COVID19.
Find out more #TechAgainstCovid19@PUBLIC_Team https://t.co/lPs7ZigZDj pic.twitter.com/pZnDYWakuh
— NHSX (@NHSX) March 23, 2020
Its new programme will look to support qualified carers, manage and deliver care in care homes and support domiciliary care and technology in the home.
For volunteering sectors innovations should support professionals triage, projecting demand, resources and tackling data gaps. In mental health the fund aims to support peer 2 peer communities, self-management and well-being.
Companies will be asked to express their interst and then go through a secretion process before NHSX and Partners test and consider deployment.
Matthew Gould, Chief Executive of NHSX, said “Tech can play an important role in helping the country deal with the challenges created by coronavirus. This competition is focused on the problems created by isolation, which lend themselves to digital solutions.”
“It will allow NHSX to accelerate the development of those solutions, so within weeks they can help those in isolation suffering from loneliness, mental health issues and other problems.”
You can register your interest in the programme here and applications close on 31st March 2020.
