Vision to Help People Live Better Lives

Councillors in South Tyneside will next week be asked to approve a new adult social care strategy which has been co-produced by people who draw upon care and support as well as partner organisations.

The Council recognises the importance of co-production and views residents as equal partners who have influence in decision-making. Adult social care in South Tyneside has made a commitment to this way of working and the approach is part of the 'Our Council' change programme which seeks to ensure people have their say on services in South Tyneside.

Councillor Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Adults, Health and Independence, said: "The new Living Better Lives strategy seeks to support a vision where we want people in South Tyneside to live in the place they call home with the people and things that they love, in communities where people look out for one another, doing things that matter to them."

The five-year strategy highlights six key objectives based on local and national priorities and local people's views of what must change to match their vision of living a better life. This includes: prevention and intervention, helping people to stay well and independent as long as possible by encouraging people to lead healthier lifestyles and making the most of their own strengths and resources; supporting people to remain in control as to how they receive their care and support to help them achieve the best outcomes; keeping people at risk of harm and abuse safe; working in partnership to improve health and care as well as working with communities and having a sustainable and skilled workforce.

Councillor Hetherington added: "Although we are facing unprecedented pressures from rising demand and reduced budgets, these challenges present an opportunity to do things differently and drive change.

"Having developed this strategy with local people, partners and our workforce, we are now in a strong position to work together to enable more people to realise their vision of what living better lives means.

One person who has been involved in drawing up the strategy is Astrid Hansen.

She said: "I jumped at the chance to have a say in shaping the direction of South Tyneside Council's Adult Social Care policies and provision.

"Hearing the public's views about what currently works, doesn't work, could work better or doesn't yet exist will hopefully ultimately shape a more effective and cohesive structure for future services which makes full use of all sectors to provide best value for the Council's limited resources."

The strategy will be presented to Members of the Cabinet next Wednesday (2 November).