Transcript

NARRATOR

The trouble with virtual reality and live video streaming is it's wasted on the young. It's great fighting zombies and watching celebrities. But we want to use this tech for something far more exciting.

We want to take the housebound elderly to the theatre, the park, and local events. We are the charity Roar Connections For Life. And we work for the older citizens in Renfrewshire. We run clubs, groups, and activities, including sessions in new technology. We work to enable participants to stay actively engaged in their community and their own lives. Since 2010, we have reached thousands. And today we have over 900 active users.

In 2021, Paisley hopes to be the UK City of Culture, bringing a plethora of new attractions and events to Renfrewshire, which, sadly, many of the housebound elderly will be unable to attend. Roar want to use VR and live video streaming to connect these people to what's happening over their doorsteps. Funding will help us set up a channel to create and present bespoke content specifically aimed at the older housebound in Renfrewshire.

VR films will let them experience local parks and museums. Live streaming will take them to performances. And live video tours with two-way comms will let them take an active part in exhibitions and events. The model can then be replicated in other areas, bringing the experience to thousands. Now isn't that better than zombies and celebrities?

WOMAN

That was very exciting.