TECHNOLOGY that could help vulnerable people live more independent lives is being piloted in the North-East.

More commonly used to prevent drivers from getting lost, global positioning system (GPS) technology is being trialled by a housing association to see if it can help the elderly and people with learning difficulties live more independently.

People for Places, a property management company providing specialist services to more than 6,000 older people, is piloting the scheme in an unspecified location in the region.

Worn around the neck, the device, which is smaller than a credit card and the thickness of a matchbox, uses GPS to locate users anywhere in the UK to an accuracy of five metres.

Users will be able to alert family members or carers to their location by pressing any one of three buttons that correspond to pre-set telephone numbers.

Their location can then be accessed through the internet or any web-enabled mobile phone.

It is hoped the technology will enable vulnerable people to live independently.

Services at Places for People include supported housing for older people as well as support for people who are homeless, disabled or victims of domestic violence.

Chris Kilbane, head of individual support at Places for People, said the housing sector should increasingly look to new technologies to help a wide range of people remain independent in their own home.

"For many people, one of the most important aspects of having their own home is the independence it offers.

"We recognised that many of the traditional means to protect very frail and vulnerable customers were intrusive and believe that assistive technology can provide the answer.

"We have therefore sought solutions that offer safety and security to both the vulnerable person and their families and carers.

"New technologies can greatly reduce the pressure on the care system and can offer people greater support and choice in maintaining their independence.

"By using assertive technology, the housing and care sector can make a fundamental and positive difference to people's lives, enabling individuals to gain a greater degree of independence."