ROBOTS could soon be used in Southend to help people live in their own homes for longer.

A project exploring how robotics, artificial intelligence and new technology could support independent living was discussed by Southend Council at a cabinet meeting this week.

Councillor Tony Cox, cabinet member for housing, said: “As the council develops its housing and homelessness strategy, the cabinet has agreed to further explore the potential role robotics and artificial intelligence could play in enabling people to stay living independently in their own homes for longer.

“The council is already playing a leading national role in the use of technology and artificial intelligence in social services, as demonstrated by the use of Pepper the robot in care homes and with young people with Asperger’s and autism.

“We, like many other local authorities, have long been using ‘telecare’ – a way of providing support and assistance remotely using sensors, while minimising risks such as a fall, gas and flood detection.

“This is just a small part of a much wider piece of work to agree Southend’s future vision for housing, which we will develop further in consultation with residents, businesses and community groups between now and March next year.”

Members of the cabinet also agreed to endorse several key aims for the strategy which are centred on supplying “genuinely affordable” homes and homelessness prevention measures.

This will include an investigation into whether land in Shoeburyness and St Laurence would be suitable for more than 50 new council homes by the end of 2020.

Mr Cox told the cabinet the strategy will be a “living plan”.

He added some of the most extensive work has been centred on preventing people from becoming homeless.

He added: “Treating people who have reached that point is one thing, but actually preventing it is the key.”

The council has received about £1million to spend on homeless prevention this year and next year.

A council report, about combining the housing and homelessness plans, stated: “This joint development will support synergy across key streams of council activity and ensure that priorities and expectations over the next few years are consistently framed.”