Scotland’s Digital Alarm Receiving Centre framework scoops major award

Scotland’s first national framework to help public bodies source Digital Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) services, has been recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Scotland Excel won the Collaboration Award at the recent Scottish GO Awards for its work to deliver the first-generation Digital ARC Framework.

The framework helps Scottish councils source the vital alarm receiving and management services needed to support vulnerable people in their homes.

Scotland Excel – the national Centre of Procurement Expertise for Local Government- worked closely with the Digital Office for Local Government and other partners to scope and develop the framework.

Julie Welsh, Scotland Excel’s Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to receive this recognition for our collaborative work to deliver Scotland’s first national Digital ARC Framework. The framework enables councils and Health and Social Care Partnerships to source the robust and secure digital solutions needed to deliver person-centred support within communities.

“Close collaboration with the Digital Office was crucial to align our strategy with national digital priorities and ensure best practices in digital transformation. We also gained valuable support during the evaluation process from partners including councils who were early adopters of the framework, the Scottish Government, NHS NSS, and technical experts from FarrPoint.

“This partnership working was vital in assessing key elements such as cyber security, operational and technical delivery, service management, implementation, and innovation. It is fantastic to have this collaborative work recognised.”

The national framework approach has brought together the collective buying power of councils and Health and Social Care Partnerships, ensured standardisation, delivered efficiencies and enhanced capabilities.

It underpins effective integration of new technologies with existing infrastructure – supporting a smooth transition from analogue to digital connections.

Martyn Wallace, Chief Digital Officer at the Digital Office said: “We are thrilled to see the Shared ARC Platform recognised for its collaborative approach to procurement. This award is a testament to the hard work and shared commitment of our team, Scotland Excel, and our partners to transforming telecare services ahead of the analogue to digital switchover.”

The framework forms part of Scotland Excel’s specialist social care portfolio and went live in November 2023 when Chubb Fire and Security Limited was awarded as the framework provider.