New ‘Virtual House’ will revolutionise independent living

13 May 2026

Imagine being able to explore a ‘virtual house’ and discover devices and household aids that can help you live more independently.

North Northamptonshire Council is introducing new interactive technology that allows people to browse specialist equipment and practical aids that can support everyday living at home.

The ‘Virtual House’ is an immersive online tool that offers a 3D virtual tour of a house that's filled with assistive equipment, practical aids, and home adaptations designed to support daily living.

Working in a similar way to Google Street View on Google Maps, users can move through a home, room-by-room, and explore a wide range of equipment suited to different needs. 

Examples include safety equipment in the kitchen, mobility aids in the bathroom, or smart sensors and communication devices in different parts of the home.

During the virtual tour, people can click on the various tags and find out more information about each item and how to self-refer to teams within adult social care or other organisations for support.

We know that many people find it hard to know what equipment is available to help at home, or to imagine how it might fit into their own lives. The Virtual House makes this much simpler. It shows practical, everyday examples of things that can help people stay safe, comfortable and independent at home. It gives residents and their families clear information, at a time that suits them, so they can make the choices that are right for them and feel more confident about their wellbeing.Cllr Chris Kellett, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Adults and Health Partnerships

Find out more about Virtual House on the council’s website.