Blantyre LIFE has been courting international attention since its opening earlier in the year.

A key area of interest is the interactive Technology Enabled Care (TEC) Zone designed in partnership with Glasgow Science Centre.

The TEC Zone demonstrates how technology can play a crucial role in supporting people to live safely, independently, and happily at home.

The latest fact-finding delegation to visit was a group from the University of Adger, in Kristiansand, Norway.

Ragni Macqueen Leifson, Project Manager of the University’s Center for e-Health, explained her team specialises in researching digital solutions that contribute to the prevention of ill health and health promotion.

“There are many learning points we’ve gleaned from our visit to Blantyre,” explained Ragni.

“The commitment to true partnership working, between social care, health, and third sector colleagues is really impressive. So too is the commitment at Blantyre LIFE to equipping all of these partners with new skills and awareness of technology and how that can improve the care they are providing.

“We saw, for example, how the TEC team here is setting on regular tutorials and support sessions for all staff. And having met some of the recipients of care, it’s really clear how this modern-day approach is benefiting people across Lanarkshire.”

Professor Elin Thygesen, Academic leader Centre for e-Health added: “We’re delighted to have made this connection with our friends and colleagues in Scotland. We look forward to continuing and building our links with Blantyre and exchanging information with a view to building on innovative approaches to care in both countries.”

Professor Soumen Sengutpa, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Innovation and collaboration with local, national and, indeed, international partners are woven into the fabric of Blantyre LIFE. We were delighted to host the latest delegation from overseas, wish our new Norwegian friends well and look forward to building on our links so that we all benefit from the exchange of learning and experiences.”