SUMMARY

This report has attached a draft strategy for the Supporting People Programme, which the lead authorities overseeing the implementation of the scheme are required to have in place by October 2002. It sets out the current service providers on the Isle of Wight who will be receiving support under the programme from 1^st April 2003. It also identifies priority areas for development across the different client groups.

BACKGROUND

Councils have been charged with coordinating the changes necessary to fund services to vulnerable adults living in the community who need support to enable them to stay living in their homes.

Typically this support will include wardens in sheltered housing schemes, help with shopping and welfare rights advice. This is different in kind and intensity from the assistance Social Services gives people who have significant care needs associated with their disability which includes personal home care, residential and nursing home care and day care.

From 1^st April 2003 the existing funding for the services covered by Supporting People will be merged and will be directed by the strategic plans drawn up for each authority.

This draft strategy sets out the proposed services that will be in place from 1^st April together with the changes that are deemed necessary to meet the changing needs of residents.

PROPOSAL

It is important that Select Committee members consider the draft strategy and make comments on the proposals as required. The strategy with amendments will then be submitted to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) for scrutiny and approval.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no direct implications arising from this report. The funding of any developments required by the new strategy will have to be found from within the grant allocated to the Isle of Wight from the 1^st April 2003.

LEGAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no legal implications arising from this report.

BACKGROUND PAPERS

Report to Select Committee November 2001

Internal Papers produced for the Supporting People Core Group (2000-2002)

Contact Point : Charles Waddicor 520600 ext 2225

C WADDICOR

Strategic Director of Social Services and Housing