Staffordshire County Council is encouraging people who want to be more independent in their own homes to try out a new interactive online tool.

The innovative 'Happy at Home' house will help highlight the range of simple and affordable assistive technology equipment available to people who may be struggling with everyday tasks around the home.

The resource allows users to take a tour around a typical home, prompting them about difficult situations and day to day tasks they could encounter. Users are then presented with a range of ideas and solutions that they can then easily compare and acquire.

Simple and inexpensive gadgets that can help someone to prepare food, get washed or dressed or feel safer around their home are examples of the kind of products being highlighted.

The new resource is part of a wider campaign by Staffordshire County Council to help support people who want to live independently in their own homes for longer.

Dr. Johnny McMahon, Cabinet Member for Health, Care and Wellbeing at Staffordshire County Council said: "One of our main priorities is to help people lead healthier and happier lives and to support them to be able to live well at home for longer.

"Technology is really transforming many aspects of everyday life. Today there are many clever and affordable devices available to help older people or people with a daily living need to stay safe and independent at home.

"We're very excited about the new online tool which we hope will make it even easier for our residents and their loved ones to find daily living products that can help to make their lives just that bit easier. And of course, at this time of year, it's a perfect way to find a useful and meaningful gift for a neighbour, friend or family member for Christmas."

As well as the interactive house, the new online service includes a range of independent living gift ideas, a library of video demonstrations of assistive technology products, and an opportunity to compare a wide choice of solutions.

People can explore the online interactive house and find out more at www.staffordshire.gov.uk/happyathome.