Rural and coastal communities face unique challenges that impact on health and care delivery. These include an ageing population, difficulties with access to services, and workforce shortages in care services. A shift towards community-based support is essential, where local networks and digital technologies empower older people to remain independent at home. The South West Peninsula is trialling new approaches to testing and translating these technologies, then adopting and spreading them through the cross-sector Peninsula Research and Innovation Partnership.

The University of Plymouth has partnered with Plymouth Community Homes to create the Plymouth Living Lab, a testbed that brings digital innovation to those often excluded from technology. The lab prioritises patient and public involvement, with residents co-designing solutions to meet their needs. The Living Lab is a tangible example of how innovation, community engagement and collaboration can support an ageing population and transform care in the community.