The manager of a Tunbridge Wells residential home has won a national award for her forward-thinking approach to IT.

Karen Cooper, manager at Mount Ephraim House, was presented with the IT Innovator award by TV personality Fiona Phillips at the Great British National Care Home Awards.

The awards, which bring together the statutory, independent and voluntary sectors, as well as unpaid carers, celebrate excellence in social care and pay tribute to those who work in the sector.

“We are delighted that our efforts to introduce IT to our residents have been recognised,” said Karen Cooper. “We installed the ‘Simply Unite’ computer service at Mount Ephraim some months ago and are so pleased to see interest increasing all the time.”

A touchscreen makes emailing and surfing the internet a straightforward process. Installing the computer in the main reception area allows residents to view family photos and videos, keep up to date with the news and browse the web in a supported environment on a daily basis. The system has been designed for those who are not inclined or have difficulty using a traditional computer.

The judges commented: “This is such a simple yet brilliant concept! Karen’s introduction of a computer system in the home has allowed residents to embrace new technology, stay in contact with friends and family whilst learning new skills and engaging with other residents, family and staff. Karen’s infectious enthusiasm and no boundaries approach is clearly the key to its success.”

Nominations were received from across the sector and the UK and successful candidates were invited for interview for the national finals.

Karen continued: “It is so refreshing to see our residents, some of whom are in their nineties, embracing new technology and so keen to learn new skills. Family members also seem to be impressed with many of them commenting that they never imagined their relatives would be using a computer at this stage of their lives. Our view is ‘why not?’.

“It’s very interesting to see the residents browsing the internet as they want to look at such diverse topics; a recent training session saw us view everything from various ailments to witchcraft!”

The Great British National Care Home Awards were hosted by the English Community Care Association, the largest representative body for community care in England, and included 15 award categories. The gala evening, which was held at the Guildhall, London, was followed by an after party on the Dutch Master, a three decked boat, which cruised along the river Thames.