Decision details

(i)  To consider the outcome of the public consultation on the proposed policy, which took place between 31 May 2016 and 23 August 2016, as set out in the consultation report, attached at Appendix 2.

(ii)  To approve the proposed Adult Social Care and Support Planning Policy, as attached at Appendix 1.

(iii)  To delegate authority to the Service Director, Adults, Housing and Communities to make any minor amendments or updates required to the policy, following consultation with the Cabinet Member, Housing and Adult Care and the Director of Quality and Integration.

(iv)  To note the development of a Service Charter, which will set out standards that customers can expect when using adult social care services under the new policy.

1.  The proposed policy will enable the Council to fulfil its duties under the Care Act 2014 in a more equitable way; will support independence; and will help to ensure that eligible social care needs are met in cost effective ways that lead to the best outcomes for individuals, their carers and families.

2.  The policy is designed to improve levels of consistency and transparency within the Council’s provision of adult social services and has been subject to twelve week public consultation. The Council gave genuine and conscientious consideration to the views and representations received from the consultation.  The final version of the policy has been influenced and updated as a result of the feedback received from consultation participants, which has sought to address any concerns raised during the consultation.

The status quo could be maintained by not adopting a policy, however, there would continue to be a low level of assurance regarding the policy objectives outlined at Section 6 and statutory requirements outlined in Sections 19-23. Not adopting a policy can therefore not be recommended.