Issue - meetings

(a)       That the Committee support the implementation of the Learning Disabilities Commissioning Strategy following final consultation and informing sessions; and

(b)       That the Director of Community Services request current information on the impact of welfare reforms for discussion at the workshop on 8 November 2013.

The Head of Adult Services introduced a report detailing plans for the provision of accommodation and support to persons with a learning disability in Flintshire over the next five years.

In providing an overview of the report, he highlighted the key points in the summary and main strategy document which indicated current provision in Flintshire and the anticipated five year model.  He summarised the vision for a range of accommodation options to enable people to be as independent as possible with ‘just enough support’ to promote their wellbeing and ensure their safety.  The strategy also aimed to increase the number of people using direct payments/Citizen Directed Support (CDS).  In conclusion, the strategy aimed to give people greater choice on independent living, where needed, in light of the increasing population of people with learning disabilities.

Councillor A.I. Dunbar asked if there was sufficient housing and support available for people who wished to move on.  He referred to people with learning disabilities who currently lived with family members and said that enabling some to live independently was a major issue requiring adequate support.  The Head of Adult Services explained that additional housing options, such as 12 flats in Mold, were being developed for this client group over the coming year and future plans for extra care provision would include options for those with learning disabilities.  It was accepted that individual support planning was needed to cater for varying needs and the Council would continue to support those who were living with people with learning disabilities.  An appropriate measured process was in place to help individuals achieve more independent living if they wished.  Options for overnight care provision could involve a ‘keyring’ model of support or use of the Telecare service, however a particular model would not be imposed on any individual.

Councillor M. Bateman asked about the range of need and percentages of the client group.  The Service Manager (Disabilities) explained that learning disabilities spanned a wide range of needs and gave examples where high and low levels of support were currently being utilised.  She explained that although there was a lower percentage of people with profound and multiple learning disabilities in the county, the number in this particular client group was consistently higher than in other North Wales Authorities.  Officers worked with the Housing section and Accommodation Group to create opportunities for housing needs and could plan transition from an early age via Children’s Services through to adult lives.  When asked about the potential for a breakdown of a situation, the Service Manager said that officers would opt to change the level of support accordingly, as opposed to removing the person from their situation.  She added that individuals would have their own tenancy agreements and therefore the same rights would apply.

Councillor D. Wisinger sought information on the number of people with learning disabilities who may need to move to a smaller property as a result of the ‘bedroom tax’ and the financial impact of such moves.  The Contracts  ...  view the full minutes text for item 19