Issue - meetings

To receive a report from the Chief Executive.

Cllr Jane Davies, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, SEND and Inclusion presented  the report which set out the commissioning plan for Carers Support Services from 2024-2027 and seeking agreement to go out to tender for these services.

The Cabinet Member explained that the new service specification has been drafted and informed by carers, changes in the market, the impact of Covid-19 on carers, lessons from the last five-years, and the need to ensure better identification and support for young carers. The current contract is due to end on 31 March 2024 and current joint funding arrangements would continue.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills highlighted the role of young carers and the impact of the role on their wellbeing. Officers confirmed that the service provided to young carers would be robust and a partnership arrangement would be in place.

Cllr Johnny Kidney, Chairman of the Health Select Committee confirmed that the Select Committee received a presentation on the development of the Carers’ Strategy and Delivery Plan at its meeting on 4 July 2023. He reported that the Committee acknowledged the work that had been undertaken with carers in scoping the strategy; highlighted a concern around the capacity of a service provider to deliver accessible support for carers in small villages and rural areas and that members had requested a briefing on the service specifications to understand how this would be addressed. In addition, the committee wished to encourage the engagement of carer’s champions with Area Boards to raise awareness of the support available and use local knowledge to improve the access to services that will be provided through the contract.

Cllr Jon Hubbard, Chairman of the Children’s Select Committee was concerned that the Strategy and Delivery Plan had not been considered by the Children’s Select Committee. He also highlighted the potential danger for young carers to be overlooked and not receive the necessary support needed. Cllr Davies welcomed the opportunity for a report on the Strategy and delivery Plan to be considered at a future meeting of the Children’s Select Committee. Officers confirmed that an extensive consultation had been undertaken in developing the service specification which included young carers alongside other groups and there was a commitment to identify young carers for inclusion in an internal central register.

Cllr Brian Mathew acknowledged the important work that carers undertake. He asked about the Shared Lives Programme and when a report would be available for members to consider. Officers would confirm details after this meeting.

Members highlighted the need for advice to carers about access to support for their role. Cllr Davies and officers confirmed that the need for this information was included in the contract specification within the Outreach area. 

Resolved:

1. To approve the Carers Support Service Commissioning Plan for a 3-year service commencing in 2024 -2027 and with a 2-year extension option. And,

2. To delegate authority to the Corporate Director, Resources and Deputy Chief Executive (S.151 Officer) in consultation with the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 87