Issue - meetings

Progression Model – Learning Disabilities

Meeting: 15/11/2018 - Social & Health Care Overview & Scrutiny Committee (Item 33)

33 Progression Model – Learning Disabilities pdf icon PDF 102 KB

Additional documents:

Decision:

(a)       That the Committee recognises the benefits of a system of support that promotes independence and uses short-term enabling support where appropriate;

 

(b)       That support is regularly reviewed to ensure responsiveness to changes in needs and aspirations; and

 

(c)        That the Committee supports the expansion of the Progression Model based on the principle that services are co-produced with people with learning disabilities and their parents/carers to ensure shared responsibility for achieving the best possible outcomes.

Minutes:

The Senior Manager Integrated Services Lead Adults/Early Years introduced the report to highlight the work being undertaken through the Progression Model to support people with disabilities to be more independent and rely less on paid support services. 

 

The Senior Manager provided background information and explained that the Progression Model was based on strength based assessments which maximised opportunities for independence, helping service users to acquire independent living skills.  The model aimed to maximise independence and make care affordable through reduced reliance on longer term care. Trained workers at all levels, including social workers, occupational therapists and the direct workforce, develop a plan with an individual taking small steps to independence.  The Senior Manager reported that the Authority had worked in partnership with three young men and their families to develop a model of supported living aimed at increasing independence, positive risk with an enablement culture, using assistive technology and individually tailored support.  The three young men currently lead varied, independent and interesting lives. 

 

The Senior Manager gave an update on the current situation and advised that 44 individuals had been supported using the Progression Model.  Use of the Model was being expanded across Learning and Physical Disability Services and the aim was that all support staff would be trained and it would  become normal practice.

 

The Chair thanked the Senior Manager for her report and invited Members to raise questions.

 

In response to a question from Councillor Hilary McGuill concerning ongoing use of assistive technology to support individuals, the Senior Manager explained that the electronic support arrangements remained in place to ensure individuals were able to undertake daily activities in their home effectively to maintain their well-being and safety.

 

Councillor Gladys Healey expressed a concern on the need for social compatibility to exist where a number of people lived together.  The Senior Manager explained that the Progression Model operated in a fully inclusive co-produced environment with individuals and their families being in full control of plans.  She commented on the comprehensive preparatory work which was undertaken by social workers around placements and the duty of care which remained throughout the arrangement.  

 

RESOLVED

 

(a)       That the Committee recognises the benefits of a system of support that promotes independence and uses short-term enabling support where appropriate;

 

(b)       That support is regularly reviewed to ensure responsiveness to changes in needs and aspirations; and

 

(c)        That the Committee supports the expansion of the Progression Model based on the principle that services are co-produced with people with learning disabilities         and their parents/carers to ensure shared responsibility for achieving the best           possible outcomes.