Issue - meetings

Report by Director for Housing and Communities on the proposed changes to the Wellbeing Services at Gretton Court and to seek approval to commence the implementation of the proposed changes.

Cabinet:

1)    APPROVED the introduction of a Wellbeing Officer provided by Melton Borough Council to residents of Gretton Court, funded through a service charge arrangement, noting that the entertainment budget will be used flexibly by officers to support general operational and resident requirements.

2)    AGREED that authority be delegated to the Director for Housing and Communities to enter into the necessary actions to implement the new service including the associated charge.

3)    AGREED that a formal review takes place no less than three months after the implementation of the revised wellbeing offer.

The Director for Housing and Communities introduced the report the purpose of which was to seek approval from Cabinet to commence the implementation of the proposed changes to the service and charges for the Gretton Court extra care facility following the withdrawal of the Leicestershire County Council ‘Wellbeing Service’.

The Director for Housing and Communities advised members that there were some slight amendments to the Proposals for Recommendations in the report, following consultation with the Friends of Gretton court, since the agenda was published.

The Leader read out the amendments to the Recommendations

Ø  2.1 – in addition to the original recommendation - The entertainment budget will be used flexibly by officers to support general operational and resident requirements.

Ø  2.3 – new recommendation - That a formal review takes place no less than three months after implementation of the revised wellbeing offer.

The Leader of the Council, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Landlord Services thanked the director and the team for the work that is done both at Gretton court and in the office.

Members agreed that it was important for the council to continue with a Wellbeing Service at Gretton Court following the withdrawal of this package from Leicestershire County Council and to work with Friends of Gretton Court to get the right level of care and support for the residents at an affordable price.

The Leader of the Council, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Landlord Services thanked Councillor Alan Thwaites for coming to the meeting to represent the Friends of Gretton Court.

Cabinet:

1)    APPROVED the introduction of a Wellbeing Officer provided by Melton Borough Council to residents of Gretton Court, funded through a service charge arrangement, noting that the entertainment budget will be used flexibly by officers to support general operational and resident requirements.

2)    AGREED that authority be delegated to the Director for Housing and Communities to enter into the necessary actions to implement the new service including the associated charge.

3)    AGREED that a formal review takes place no less than three months after implementation of the revised wellbeing offer.

Reasons for Recommendations:

Gretton Court is designated as an Extra Care Scheme offering accommodation to older residents with care and support needs. Melton Borough Council is the landlord, whilst Leicestershire County Council has responsibility for resident care.

The offer at Gretton Court includes additional (paid for) services such on site care and support, midday meals and social activities. Gretton Court provides an alternative supported housing option for older residents, enabling them to maintain their independence and reducing their need to access residential care.

The withdrawal of the Wellbeing Service by Leicestershire County Council has reduced the offer to residents. An alternative offer is proposed, which

represents a more effective, efficient, and resilient service offer for residents and responds directly to tenant feedback about the services they receive. It also results in a reduced weekly wellbeing charge for residents compared to the previous service offer from LCC.

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