NearMe is a safe and confidential video calling platform that allows people to attend appointments from home or wherever is convenient to them.
NearMe can be accessed from wherever you are, without travelling, from the device of your choice. NearMe allows a secure video call between individual service users and their service provider. Service providers send a one-off link that, when accessed, brings the service user straight into a video call. It allows easy escalation from a phone call to a video consultation.
Why use NearMe?
Video consultations offer the chance to reduce your travel time, or time away from home, work or school to attend your appointment. Using NearMe also makes it easier for you to have a family member or carer join you for your appointment.
How does it work?
Watch the quick video on the right to learn how NearMe works and discover the advantages it can bring to your day.
What are the benefits?
Reduced travel to appointments: time, cost, convenience.
Reduced time away from work, school or home.
Easier to attend if you usually need someone to take you to appointments.
Enables you to have someone with you for support at your appointment (either with you or joining the consultation by video from another location, even from remote or abroad locations).
Better for the environment.
Reduces spread of infectious diseases like coronavirus or flu.
Is NearMe secure?
NearMe is nationally procured by the Scottish Government and has nationally agreed Data Privacy Impact Assessment that meets GDPR and Information Governance requirements. The platform does not retain any information about the service user after the call has finished.
Requirements
To use NearMe you will need:
A reliable internet connection (broadband or 3G/4G)
A device for making video calls, such as smart phone, tablet, laptop or computer with web cam
Please use a WiFi connection for your call whenever possible. We want to make you aware that 20 minute consultation will use approximately 230Mb of mobile data. If you are on a limited mobile data plan this may cause you to exceed your permitted usage allowance.
Test your Device
We recommend checking your device and internet connection are compatible with NearMe. For more detailed information and instructions on how to test your device please visit the NearMe - Make a Test Call page.
Hints and Tips
Make sure the device that you are using is fully charged or has sufficient battery power to complete the video call
Please ensure that you are in a quiet, private well lit location prior to the start of your video consultation
If you have anyone with you during the video call can you please advise when entering the call
Our aim is that NearMe video calls can be offered to anyone, where it is appropriate. Therefore, NearMe has produced patient information leaflets translated into 32 languages; production of Easy Read leaflets; functionality to translate speech to text via Chrome; and enhancements to the user interface to improve access for those with disabilities.
What services use NearMe?
In South Ayrshire, the following services currently use NearMe:
Social Work
Housing Management
Housing (Kyle Street)
Housing (Maybole and Girvan)
Other services may also offer this communication method; you can enquire with services directly to find out more.
