A NEW and innovative approach for providing domiciliary care ensuring people feel part of the community in Thurrock has been agreed by cabinet.
‘Living Well in Thurrock’ will provide community-based services for residents to achieve a good life which is as independent as possible. Reducing inequality in health and wellbeing and ensuring early intervention is at the heart of the new approach.
At last week’s (Wednesday 11 January) Cabinet meeting, councillors agreed the new model for domiciliary care can proceed to the tender stage of procurement.
The new model will see Thurrock divided up into eight areas with a lead provider appointed for each community. They will be expected to engage and collaborate with other organisations to develop local solutions for residents.
As each provider will be limited to a maximum of two areas, there will be no single supplier providing all domiciliary care – ensuring resilience and local competition between suppliers to improve services.
Cabinet also agreed a six month extension to existing contracts so the procurement process can be completed by October.
Cabinet Member for Children’s and Adult Social Care, Cllr Sue Little, said: “This new approach to providing services will greatly improve the outcomes for residents – allowing them to live good and independent lives.
“Having a lead provider in each area will cut down on the situation we have now with carers criss-crossing the borough between appointments – which is very inefficient.
“We know we have to change how things are being done – pressures are continuing to be felt nationally as well as locally.
“The quality of life of people receiving domiciliary care is extremely important and we must make sure their leisure, social and nutritional needs are met.”
For more information about adult social care in Thurrock, please visit thurrock.gov.uk/adult-care
