Overview
The Older People Steering Group met to discuss improvements in care services and public information for older adults across Devon. The meeting focused on making care options clearer and more accessible, ensuring that older people and their families are supported in making informed decisions.
The group included representatives from Devon County Council, Age UK Devon, and the Involvement Team. Discussions centred on the development of a revised care home fee model, the creation of public-facing guidance, and collaborative efforts to address concerns raised by older people and their advocates.
Key Discussion Points
Care Home Fee Model
- Work has resumed on updating the fee model for residential and nursing care placements.
- A specialist consultancy is reviewing market rates and service descriptions.
- Key dates:
- 21 July: Proposal presented to senior leadership
- 1–24 August: Public engagement period
- 12 September: Final report submitted
- 13 October: New fee model goes live (for new clients and those under review)
Public Guidance on Care Options
- New materials are being developed to help people understand their care choices.
- The guidance will highlight alternatives to care homes, such as sheltered housing, Shared Lives, and technology-enabled care.
- It will also provide clear information about fees and what happens when private funding runs out.
- A communications lead will support the creation of engaging content, including video resources.
- Target completion: before or just after Christmas 2025
Collaboration with Age UK Devon
- Age UK Devon is supporting the development of public messaging to ensure it is clear, inclusive, and based on real experiences.
- A case study from Age UK Devon’s Insight Report is informing the work.
- Age UK Devon will also support the engagement period and help review materials.
Concerns Raised
- Some individuals were not offered care assessments when needed.
- A lack of clarity around funding led to a significant financial burden for one client.
- The importance of using formal complaint processes was discussed.
- National guidance from Age UK will be used to improve messaging.
Agreed Actions
- Arrange an introductory meeting between Age UK Devon and the Involvement Team to discuss collaboration and digital tools.
- Share regular updates from Age UK Devon’s helpline to identify emerging issues. (Ongoing)
- Include diversity data in future reports to reflect engagement with older people from a range of backgrounds. (Ongoing)
- Seek input from Age UK Devon on the new Care Homes choice policy. (In progress)
- Co-produce public guidance with stakeholders, including messaging around care alternatives.
- Collaborate across teams to shape outreach and communications.
- Share insight materials to inform messaging. (Completed)
- Follow up on a complaint case and consider formal escalation if needed.