Nottingham City Council has approved plans to implement a Home Care model across five Independent Living schemes in the city to ensure the provision is focused on the resident’s individual needs and offers equal access to services for people across the city.
The decision made at the Council’s Executive Board today (16 December) follows an extensive review of the existing Extra Care model which found it was underused and led to a ‘postcode lottery of provision that was inequitable and unsustainable’, according to the Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Helen Kalsi,
Extra Care has been in place at five Independent Living complexes in the city for older adults or individuals with specific needs, which are managed by different providers. They consist of self-contained flats complemented by communal facilities. On site care and support is available alongside 24-hour emergency alarm systems.
Under the new approach, care will be provided based on individually assessed needs, ensuring compliance with the Care Act 2014 and the Council’s statutory duty to deliver Best Value. This transition aligns with the Council’s core mission to empower safe communities, provide affordable housing, and promote health and independence for residents.
The new model focuses on funding care where there is assessed need, improving commercial sustainability while maintaining high-quality support.
Transitional support has been provided to ensure a smooth and safe changeover for residents.
The Council will continue to work closely with housing providers, care agencies, and residents to ensure the transition is managed effectively and that all statutory obligations are met.
An Accommodation Strategy and business implementation plan will be developed to guide future service provision and ensure long-term planning.
Councillor Helen Kalsi, said: “I understand that there is a lot of emotion around the services provided to our city’s more vulnerable citizens, and that is why we strive to keep outcomes and the welfare of those citizens central to the work that we do. We may not get it right all the time, but when the city speaks, we listen.
“During this process, the council has endeavoured to be as transparent as possible. I visited one of the five Independent Living schemes at Seagrave Court earlier this year to listen to the concerns of the residents and their families and have also met with people on an individual basis.
“Our Adult Social Care teams have spoken to all the people at the scheme currently receiving dedicated care and support to review their individual needs. All other residents were invited to request a care assessment if they wished and as a result an additional seven people have requested this.
“This decision reflects our commitment to delivering care that meets residents’ needs By adopting a Home Care model, we can provide consistent, high-quality support and plan effectively for the future.”