Personalising Adult Social Care
There are some changes planned nationally to Adult Social Care, changing the whole system, and giving people who need services the opportunity to use their own expertise to have services developed to the individual’s requirements to get the maximum benefit to support their needs. The new system will be built upon what is being called ”Self-Directed Services”
Why is this happening?
The White Paper, “Our health, our care, our say” confirmed that people want support when they need it, and they expect it quickly, easily and in a way that fits into their lives. They want Adult Social Care services to consider their needs with a greater focus on preventing problems from happening and promoting independence and wellbeing.
This means that every person who receives support, from the Council, Health or funded by themselves, will be able to shape their own lives and the services they receive no matter what those services are. This will lead to social care working more effectively, providing better value for money for everyone. The Government has given Councils a Social Care Reform Grant from 2008-2011 to make the changes which are required.
What is happening in Darlington?
Darlington Adult Social Services plan to use this money to develop a Business Transformation Team. The team will have responsibility for a number of key service developments that are necessary to bring about personalised services for all adults who receive social care services.
Local authorities, government departments and partners from independent, voluntary, and community organisations will all play a vital role in transforming social care services, taking into account housing, benefits, leisure and transport. To begin the development phase, a “Framing Day” is planned for 5 September 2008 and representatives from these organisations and agencies have been invited to attend.
We will update these pages with the results of the “Framing Day” and the establishment of the Business Transformation Team as it becomes available.
Making transformation a reality
The Government expects that by 2010-2011, Councils will have made significant steps towards redesigning their Adult Social Care Services, with the majority having most of the personalised system in place. Councils should be able to show how they are working more effectively by focusing on supporting people to remain independent. The Department of Health is currently working with its partners to develop a support programme for councils.
Further information
If you require further information contact the Assistant Director of Adult Social Services
The following websites may also be helpful.
Putting People First
Sets out the shared vision and commitment of shared aims and values that will guide the transformation of Adult Social Care and health.
Valuing People
In Control
Office for Disability Issues
Our Health Our Care Our Say
Individual Budgets
Department of Health
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