A GROUNDBREAKING app is being launched to support the region's unpaid carers.
The technology, being introduced early next year, will provide a range of help to users.
Carers will be able to securely access and manage health and care information from their device, as well as handle household bills and medication.
They can also invite family members and other carers into a 'circle of care' to communicate and share information through the app.
And the technology will integrate with devices such as Fitbit, Google Home and Amazon Alexa to control and monitor alerts including heart rate, blood pressure and room temperature remotely.
The app has been developed by Care Networx, as part of a major deal with NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board.
It includes a function linking to the Yorkshire and Humber Care Record, which will enable professionals to instigate contingency plans should a carer be unexpectedly absent.
The app will be available on iPhone and Android to the 250,000 unpaid carers across West Yorkshire, including those in Bradford District and Craven.
Kulvant Sandhu, for NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, says: "We are committed to continuing our support for unpaid carers across the region.
"The development of this app and digital contingency plan will benefit many carers in our region.
"It will provide proactive support and help streamline care processes. Users will, for the first time, be able to securely access and manage vital health and care information all from their device, making caring for someone much easier."
Alexis Twigg, founder of Care Networx, says: "As someone who has first-hand experience of being an unpaid carer, developing the carers app is more than just a passion project – it is a necessity.
"It will empower unpaid carers with the digital tools to support a loved one, promoting proactive care by default, and reducing stress and anxiety for all concerned. It will enable access to information at the touch of a few buttons.
"Winning the contract with West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board – with the support of 6b Digital, a technology consultancy – means more carers in the region will now benefit from the app.
"We hope that other integrated care boards and areas follow in the footsteps of West Yorkshire, working with us to bring proactive care technology to their regions."
For further information about the app, visit carenetworx.com, or watch a video containing more details at youtu.be/R1WkJ0uwb7k
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