Westminster City Council has established itself as a pioneer in the field of technology-enabled care, particularly with its adoption of digital solutions for carer access to clients’ homes.
A few years back, the council became the first UK local authority to experiment with this innovative approach, aimed at enhancing both security and transparency. This initiative paved the way for a sustained collaboration with Keynetics, a provider of digital key safe solutions, culminating in a three-year contract extension following a successful two-year trial at several client homes across Westminster.
Access to a client’s residence is a critical component of effective care delivery, often facilitated by key safes at entry points. Traditional mechanical key safes, however, pose considerable security risks, including the potential for unauthorised access and the logistical challenges associated with changing access codes. Such safes lack the necessary security certifications and are vulnerable to breaches, which is a significant consideration given the duty of care owed to vulnerable individuals.
To counter these challenges, Westminster City Council implemented the SentriKey Care solution offered by Keynetics. This digital system comprises a Bluetooth-certified key safe, a remote access management platform, and a user-friendly app. It allows for precise tracking of each visit, including the visitor’s identity, date, and duration, thereby eradicating risks associated with unauthorised entries. The management of access is simplified; permissions are granted and revoked remotely, and care agency staff can administer access directly.
The digital solution also provides flexibility, such as issuing temporary codes for one-time access by emergency services. These codes are strictly monitored, with a specified expiration to mitigate security threats. The platform is designed to increase transparency and accountability, serving as proof of care visits, and can send real-time notifications to families when a visit occurs.
Besides its security features, the digital key management system offers unexpected benefits. Stuart Wheeler, Managing Director at Keynetics, highlights the sustainability aspect, stating, “In addition to the well-known features of our key management solutions, sustainability is one of the most appealing benefits for organisations in both private and public sectors.” This is achieved by redeploying key safes, which is cost-effective and reduces visual clutter in residential areas.
Jonathan Wills, Senior Delivery Manager at Westminster City Council, reflects on the partnership with Keynetics, “Our collaboration with Keynetics has enabled us to introduce a significant new technology to the Borough – the first of its kind to be used in a UK local authority – and to offer a cutting edge and best in class product and service to our residents. A successful pilot proved the efficacy and benefits of the products and cemented a very positive relationship with Keynetics – one which we are happy to see continue with a longer-term contract now in place.”
