We have published three high-level draft proposals for how we plan to support older people, unpaid carers, and adults of working age in future, and we are inviting Devon residents to tell us what they think.
We publish a strategy every few years setting out what we believe our vision should be in meeting people’s social care needs.
Our last strategy, ‘Promoting Independence in Devon’, was published five years ago, prior to the coronavirus pandemic and the current cost-of-living crisis.
Councillor James McInnes, Cabinet Member with responsibility for adult social care, said:
“Much has changed in the last few years. We’ve seen the effects that COVID-19 has had on our population, and we’re currently seeing how the high costs of food and fuel are impacting most on the most vulnerable in our society.
“So we need to re-evaluate and refresh our strategies to make sure they’re fit for today’s Devon, and that they meet the demands of residents today.
“The key pillar running through our vision is the understanding that people would rather live in the place that they call home, with people and things that they love, in communities that look out for each other, and that they’re able to do the things that matter most to them.
“To that end, we will continue to work with people to help them maintain their independence, and where people do need support, we will try to make sure that is in their own home.”
Our three draft strategies include:
- Living Well In Devon, focusing on social care for people aged 18 to 64 years old
- Ageing Well in Devon, focusing on people aged 65 and over
- Caring Well in Devon, focusing on the care and support available for unpaid carers – people who voluntarily care for family members and friends
“People generally do not want to be dependent on public services,” says Cllr McInnes. “They prefer to live with and be supported by their family and friends at home in the community and connected to their communities and interests.
“But we recognise that this can put pressure on those who support them, which is why our Caring Well Strategy is so important.
“Similarly, for Autistic people, people with a Learning Disability, mental health need or physical or sensory disability, our vision is for them to live independently in their own homes in the community and to benefit from support that builds on their strengths to live the life that is right for them and those who support them.
“We want to create fairer, healthier, more inclusive and caring communities where people feel safe and connected within their community, and able to help themselves and each other.
“And for older people, our Ageing Well in Devon strategy will focus on people with a wide variety of needs from the active and well, to those with significant care needs. The aim of this strategy is to create communities that support people of all ages to live well together across Devon, reducing social isolation.
“We want Devon to be a place that celebrates ageing and for older people to be respected, heard, and valued.
“We’d like to hear what people think about the three draft strategies, and we’ll continue to consult directly with people who use our services and organisations, groups and forums who represent them.”
Consultation closes on Sunday 19 March 2023.
For more information, visit our Have Your Say website.