The mission of the Community Toolbox is to provide an opportunity for communities to try and test smart sensing technologies in return for value driven insights. The community toolbox strives to be a catalyst that gathers real, honest and ethical insights that can influence the longevity market for the better. The Community Toolbox aims to carry out it’s vision in a transparent co-operative manner within the Voice community and to widen the Voice opportunity in the North East. We hope that providing smart sensing technology we can make a real difference to how people understand their data, remove barriers to technology and how to positively interact with new technological products that can help us to live a healthier, longer and happier life.
To become eligible for borrowing any smart tool(s) from the Community Toolbox you must be a member of Voice, our citizen involvement network. If you haven’t registered with Voice yet, Click here↗ to register.
Explore the currently available smart tools from our 'Borrow' page and select the one that aligns with your interests or objectives.
Once you have selected the smart tool, click on 'Borrow' which will lead you to a borrowing form where you have to tell us the borrowing time period and your motivation to borrow the smart tool of your choice. We value knowing what inspired you to join Community Toolbox. Our team will contact you within 7 working days with a confirmation.
Our team will contact you to either visit our base at National Innovation Centre for Ageing↗ or in the Grainger Market at a scheduled time to collect your chosen smart tool. Our team will also assist you with information on setting up the device and other essential information to get you started.
*If you are unable to collect on your own due to disability or caring responsibilities, we may be able to offer an alternative arrangement. While filling the borrowing form, please select ‘yes’ for additional support needed to collect device.
During the borrowing period we’d encourage you to make the most of the device by exploring its capabilities, actively collect data, and contribute to Community Toolbox’s initiative by participating in (optional) ‘Challenges’ associated with the device.
At the end of the borrowing period, simply return the smart tool to National Innovation Centre for Ageing↗ either in-person or by post. Our team will ensure a smooth return process and send you a reminder.
At the end of Community Toolbox Test period, our team will process participants' feedback and overall experience with smart tools and share a brief Insights report.
Let’s keep in touch! Stay connected with us through updates and community events at the Grainger Market. Your continued engagement strengthens our vibrant community.
The Community Toolbox is being delivered by the Internet of Caring Things® programme (part of the National Innovation Centre for Ageing) with funding from the North of Tyne Combined Authority. It is inspired by and builds on the successful ‘SenseMyStreet’ Sensor Commissioning Toolkit created by Open Lab and Urban Observatory at Newcastle University.
In Partnership with
