Decision details

The Cabinet considered the joint report of the Director of Older People and Head of Transformation on the Adult Social Care Change Programme and the proposed planned activity to be undertaken under the Programme.

Decision Made:

That:

(1)       the proposed approach associated with Community Services be approved and the intention to commence consultation on the models of support be noted; and

(2)       the financial and other risks to the Council set out in the report be noted.

Reasons for Decision:

The Council had significant existing responsibilities for Adult Social Care and invests considerable resources (£92 million per annum) into this service. The Adult Social Care Change Programme’s overall aim was to develop a model for Sefton Council’s Adult Social Care that is sustainable, modern and flexible, delivering the four strategic priorities as set out in the ASC Strategic Plan 2013-20 as approved in November 2013, and the delivery of the changes associated with the Care Act.

New requirements, duties and responsibilities associated with the Care Act would be designed, developed and implemented from April 2015 with full implementation planned for April 2016. In the light of the timescale, breadth of changes and associated risks, it was important that the Council prepared for the implementation despite of a lack of clarity about some of the key features.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

Maintaining the status quo is not an option due to demographic and budgetary pressures and new legislation.