A PROJECT involving wearable technology for Autism Together service users has been given a £96,161 cash boost.

Pioneered by Autism Together, the scheme will see people with severe autism monitored by biometric sensors in the form of lightweight wristbands in a bid to find out more about autism.

NHS Digital provided the cash boost to the project after searching for innovative ideas for how technology could help shape the future of social care.

It is hoped that the sensors will allow researchers to spot the signs leading up to sever anxiety attacks so that they can be reduced by keeping track of real time changes in skin temperature, sweat, heart rate and movements.

A trial phase for the new technology will be overseen by academics in the US and the information which has been gathered from the wristbands will also be compared to observations by staff members.

This will take into account environmental triggers such as heat, light and noise.

Robin Bush, chief executive of Autism Together, said: “There has never been a more challenging time for autism care. Often, people with complex autism find themselves on a sickening merry-go-round of failed placement following failed placement.

"Imagine if, by using biometric technology, we could ‘see inside’ these people in a new way, finally understanding what was causing their distress. It could be transformative. We’re very grateful to our partners in this truly pioneering project.”

The cash injection for the Wirral Council and Autism Together project was announced at the National Children and Adult Services Conference by the minister of state for the Department of Health and Social Care Caroline Dinenage.

Wirral Council’s cabinet member for adult care and health, Cllr Chris Jones, said: “This pilot also aims to help make life easier and more comfortable for those with severe autism.

“Hopefully it will help to reduce incidents of challenging behaviour which will have a hugely positive impact for the individuals concerned, reduced stress and worry for their families and improved care overall.”