Issue - meetings

Report of the Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Health and Public Service Reform attached.

The Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Health and Public Service Reform presented the Quarter 4 report for 2024–25 from the Adult Social Care Department. The report provided an update on the delivery of the Adult Social Care Strategic Plan, outlined preparations for the forthcoming Care Quality Commission (CQC) assessment regime for local authorities, and included a summary of the department’s performance framework.

Councillor Bernstein queried the reported 4.9% rise in residential care costs, which was attributed to changes in NHS processes. He asked whether this increase was likely to have significant financial implications for the Council.

Adrian Crook, Director of Adult Social Care, responded that any rise in demand is a concern, as it inevitably results in additional costs. To mitigate the financial impact of increased demand, the department is focusing on expanding its intermediate care services. The recent rise in demand has been prompted by changes in hospital discharge pathways. In response, the Council has undertaken significant work within the hospital setting to reduce patient deconditioning, which is already showing positive results.

Mr. Crook highlighted that the Council’s collaborative approach had been recognised with a Health Service Journal award. He noted that, according to several key metrics, the flow of older people through Bury’s hospital system—particularly through the improvement plan titled “Getting It Right First Time”—has been exemplary, with Fairfield Hospital ranking as a top performer. The overarching aim remains to support older people to maintain their independence for as long as possible and to ensure effective patient flow through intermediate care services. This approach is intended to reduce reliance on long-term residential care and help manage financial pressures on the adult social care system.

Decision:

The Cabinet:

1. Noted the report.

Reasons for the decision:

Not applicable

Alternative options considered and rejected:

None