New ‘smart homes’ are to be created to help elderly and disabled people tackle loneliness in rural areas, according to Open Access Government.

The pilot, to take place in West Essex, will train residents to develop digital skills so they can become experts in a technology called ‘digital buddies’.

They will then open their homes for older people to visit and learn about smart technology, for example showing them how to control household appliances, book doctor’s appointments online, video chat with friends, and order online shopping.

Money for the pilot has been made available by the Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund provided by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

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