This report sets out the outcome of the consultation on the future Day Offer for vulnerable adults and older people, requests that the Day Offer is adopted and proposes the next steps.

1.         That the outcome of the public consultation on the Day Offer, as set out in paragraphs 4 to 20 and Appendix 1 to the report, be noted.

2.         That the revised Day Offer, set out in Appendix 2 to the report, be adopted as the Council’s approach to the delivery of day services in the future.

3.         That the timescale and approach to the delivery of the new Day Offer, as set out in paragraphs 21 to 25 of the report, be approved.

The Executive considered a report from the Executive Member for Social Care and Housing that set out the outcomes of the consultation on the future day offer for vulnerable adults and older people. 

The Council had received 102 responses with the majority of the respondents supporting the key principles and components proposed as part of the future day offer. Following the consultation, the proposed day offer would place additional emphasis on suitable provision for people with dementia and providing opportunities for people of working age to learn life skills, including to help them access employment.  Engagement would continue with customers and family carers.

In response to questions, the Executive Member for Social Care and Housing explained that where possible volunteers in villages and towns would be able to help, but this would depend on the level of care a person required.  There was a real opportunity to build on what was already taking place in the community to improve the lives of older people, vulnerable adults and their carers. 

Reason for decision:  To enable the Council to take forward and progress an improved day offer for older people and vulnerable adults.

RESOLVED

1.         that the outcome of the public consultation on the day offer, as set out in paragraphs 4 to 20 and Appendix 1 to the report, be noted;

2.         that the revised day offer, set out in Appendix 2 to the report, be adopted as the Council’s approach to the delivery of day services in the future; and

3.         that the timescale and approach to the delivery of the new day offer, as set out in paragraphs 21 to 25 of the report, be approved.

To consider the outcome of the consultation on the future Day Offer, to comment on the key themes and issues set out in the report and provide recommendations to Executive for consideration.

The Head of Managing the Needs of Older People (MANOP) introduced a report that outlined the responses received to date on the Day Offer for Older People and Adults with Disabilities consultation and meetings with the public.  Three key themes had emerged from the consultation:-

·         A need for those of working age to be able to access employment opportunities.

·         A need to specifically acknowledge the needs of older people with dementia. 

·         That the wording of the offer should avoid the use of words and phrases that the general public may not immediately understand.

The need for change to the current day care offer had been recognised and officers would continue to engage with customers and their family carers along the journey.  Relatives had stressed the importance of the day care centre service in providing them with respite and also allowing carers to meet together and get support.

RECOMMENDED

The Committee:-

1.    Recognises the need to bring our day offer, including our buildings, up to date.

2.    Welcomes the positive move towards a personalised service promoting the independence and other needs of our residents.

3.    Particularly welcomes the proposal to amend the day offer with reference to dementia clients.

4.    Recognises the need to ensure that transport needs can be met to get clients to the right place at the right time.

5.    Expects the Council to seize any opportunities to work with other bodies to create an integrated pathway for our clients.

Looks to see that our clients varied needs can be met in a realistic manner.