CUTTING-edge technology is being used at two north Hampshire hospices to help young people communicate and take control.

Children’s hospice charity Lifelites supplied the Naomi House and Jacksplace hospices, near Sutton Scotney, with touch-screen technology, the latest gaming consoles, and specially-adapted iPads.

All of the equipment uses the technology Eye Gaze, which tracks a user’s eyes to allow them to control the machines.

Mark Smith, deputy chief executive of Naomi House and Jacksplace, said: “We are delighted to have received a brand new suite of computer equipment courtesy of the Lifelites charity.

“This high-specification equipment has been designed with accessibility in mind and can be enjoyed by many of the children who stay at Naomi House, regardless of their medical condition.”

Simone Enefer-Doy, chief executive of national charity Lifelites, added: “This is a ground-breaking Lifelites project and contains some of our most revolutionary technology to date.

“But it’s more than just futuristic gadgets. This equipment will mean that children at Naomi House and Jacksplace now have more opportunities to communicate, create and take control.

“That is why we’re determined to continue putting revolutionary technology like the Eye Gaze in every hospice in the British Isles.”

The Lifelites equipment and support will cost around £35,700 over the next four years, but the hospice will not be footing the bill because charities including Thomas Cook Children’s Charity have agreed to help fund the project.

Joanna Wild, chairman of Thomas Cook Children’s Charity, said: “We’re very proud to have supported the work of Lifelites over the past three years through funding.”