Living Well in Devon Transformation Programme

Discussion focused on improving assessments and reviews, concerns about reduced support following reviews, and the need for better support for carers of autistic and neurodiverse adults.

Improving Community Services and Outcomes

The presentation promoted a greater focus on outcomes, independence, inclusion, and community participation. Members also discussed housing issues and establishing regular working groups.

Access to Adult Social Care and Connected Communities

Updates were provided on improving access to social care through prevention, reablement, and community signposting. Concerns were raised about accessibility, language barriers, and support for autistic people.

Adult Social Care Performance and Local Government Reorganisation

The CQC assessment highlighted strengths in person-centred care but identified areas needing improvement, including assessment delays and support for carers. An update was also provided on local government reorganisation plans.

Learning Disability Partnership Board

Work continues to improve access to social care, accessibility of information, safeguarding awareness, and inclusive practices for people with learning disabilities.

Learning Disability Friendship Groups

Friendship groups continue to provide peer support and social opportunities. Current work includes supported living, reasonable adjustments, and improving co-production with diverse communities.

Disability Engagement and Co-production

Several projects are strengthening co-production, improving guidance, safeguarding engagement, and service design. Positive benefits of involving people with lived experience were highlighted.

Autism Community Update

Members received updates on autism-related resources, newsletters, and awareness materials. Feedback was requested to help improve future communications.

LGBTQ+ Community Support Update

An update was provided on organisational changes, new funding opportunities, expanded activities, and the reopening of referral waiting lists.

Ethnically Diverse Community Engagement

Work is underway to support migrant communities through internships, skills development, and increased engagement with local services and decision-makers.

Older People’s Feedback

Feedback highlighted mixed experiences of carers’ support and confusion about social care charges. Clear and personalised communication was identified as a priority.

Health and Wellbeing Board Update

The group discussed changes to the Health and Wellbeing Board and opportunities to raise issues and influence future discussions.

Engagement Opportunities and Future Projects

Members were invited to contribute to supported living projects, scrutiny activities, and discussions about the future use of AI in assessments and reviews.

Next Joint Engagement Forum (JEF) – 13th October 2026