Looking Local has completed the development of two new apps supporting health and financial wellbeing for Plus Dane tenants, encompassing both Plus Dane’s various housing services as well as complementary services from external government agencies.
In addition to services such as repairs reporting, paying rent and requesting appointments, Plus Dane’s new digital solution provides support tools beyond housing. The two apps bring together services including Universal Jobmatch, The Money Advice Service, Universal Credit and NHS Choices.
The apps helps tenants search for employment and provides job-hunting tips. Users can also calculate their benefits entitlement, book a doctor’s appointment and check health symptoms.
Plus Dane’s tenants can use the apps to request demonstrations of the community alarm, report instances of anti-social behaviour, log complaints, or leave compliments. They can also play their part in maintaining their local environment, with a street-scene reporting function for issues such as road repairs, dumped rubbish, faulty street lights and graffiti.
The apps were built by public sector-owned technology developer Looking Local using its own MyLandlord platform. The free apps for iOS and Android can be downloaded by tenants from Apple’s iTunes and Google’s Playstore. The same information can also be accessed by tenants through Sky and Virgin digital television channels, making them accessible to as many tenants as possible.
Kelly Arnold, digital inclusion officer, Plus Dane, said, “We are focusing on improving tenants’ digital skills and we are particularly keen to make employment opportunities and advice readily available. LookingLocal’s apps make job-hunting and a range of other services straightforward and convenient.”
