Health and Social Care Committee

Consultation on terms of reference for inquiry into residential care for older people

RC23 ToR – Gwynedd Council

Health and Social Care Committee :

Consultation on terms of reference of inquiry

Gwynedd Council 14/10/2011

Below are the points raised by officers within Gwynedd Council’s Social Services and Provider Services. Here are some comments to consider and include in the consultation.

· The effect of uncertainty about future provision on today’s residents and the question of best practice when moving from one model of care to another, bearing in mind those people who are already receiving  residential care. We need to be certain about the new models we are introducing.   

· The effect of closing or transferring residential care homes on residents and communities. Is there evidence to show that closing homes has a negative effect on communities? Residents receive the occasional visitor but, apart from that, what is the home’s place within the community?    

· The discussion on Extra Care Homes (which is being promoted widely  across Wales) in the context of the need to create inclusive, supportive and diverse communities. Is there a danger that Wales will follow the American model of creating gated communities which could lead to weakening of our links with older people in our communities? We need to prevent this from happening and make sure that Extra Care Homes are located in the community and placed firmly in the context of community and culture.  

· What are the expectations of the consultation exercise?

· The Charging Policy should be considered during the consultation period

Apart from the above, we are happy with the content produced previously.