IT is something out of a science fiction novel a house that thinks for itself and looks after its occupant's every need.

And the organisation at the forefront of this technological advancement is Swindon Council.

The Smart house, developed in partnership with the Guinness Trust and Tunstall Telecom, is one of the first 10 in the UK.

It is a home equipped with the latest technology to enable vulnerable people to remain living independently in their own homes for as long as possible.

Based at Harold Thorpe Gardens in Walcot, the house has been fitted with a range of unobtrusive sensors that monitor risk in the home, giving peace of mind for older people and their families.

It will demonstrate the benefits of sensor technology in supporting older people, offering an alternative to traditional residential care, as well as helping healthcare professionals with their training.

Cabinet member for housing, Coun David Renard said: "This is a great step forward for the council in helping the vulnerable people of Swindon to feel secure and be able to stay in their own home."

The sensors monitor a range of potential risks, including falls and intruders, and can even pick up if the home owner is wandering, which is particularly useful for people with dementia.

It also watches for environmental issues such as floods, fire and gas leaks.

When a sensor is activated it sends a radio signal to a central home unit, the Lifeline 400, which then automatically calls the council's 24-hour response centre.

There operators can take the most appropriate action, contacting a key holder, doctor or emergency services or one of Swindon's mobile Homeline wardens.

It is hoped the Smart home initiative will help to reduce the burden on hospitals and the residential care sector by enabling people to leave hospital earlier and return safely to their own homes.

It will also cut down on the length of stay in residential and nursing homes as older people will be able to remain at home for longer.

The official launch of the Swindon Council Smart house is being held on Monday, March 7, at 11am.

Jamie Hill