Issue - meetings

As detailed in the recommendations.

Councillor Jones introduced the A Place to Call Home report which followed the Older People’s Commissioner Care Home Review in November 2014. 

The review looked into the quality of life and care of older people living in care homes in Wales and whilst the review confirmed that residential care was a positive choice for many people, and one that enhanced their quality of life, there were also improvements which could be made to improve the ‘lived experience’ of many residents.

The report included 43 action points, some of which local authorities were responsible for.  Since the publication of the report, Flintshire had been developing strategies to improve the experience and quality of life for people living in Flintshire care homes and the work was reviewed by the Commissioner in 2017.  The Commissioner found that Flintshire was “Sufficient” in the 15 areas of the review; this was the highest category that could be awarded so it was a positive evaluation for the Council.

Councillor Shotton welcomed the views of the Commissioner and the recognition of good practice.  It gave the Council confidence in its ambitions which included the increase in bed provision at Marleyfield in Buckley.

Councillor Bithell also welcomed the report and complimented staff for the achievement.  In response to a question, the Senior Manager – Children and Workforce explained that the remaining homes to carry out ‘Creating a Place Called Homes, Delivering What Matters’ were independent businesses and were being encouraged to engage.

Councillor Jones wished the Commissioner well as her term of office ceased in April.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the content of the Flintshire’s ‘A Place to Call Home? – Impact Analysis’ report be noted;

(b)       That details of ongoing actions and initiatives underway within Social Services to continue to enhance the quality of life of residents in Flintshire care homes be noted; and

(c)        That the letter of response to the Older People’s Commissioner be approved.