Lancashire councillors to consider next steps for future adult social care model
The council says any future proposals will be developed with people who use services, carers, providers and communities.
Councillors in Lancashire are being asked to approve the next stage of work to develop future models of adult social care.
A report going before Cabinet next week sets out how services could evolve in the years ahead as part of Lancashire County Council’s wider plan to improve adult social care.
The work follows findings from the Care Quality Commission and is aimed at shaping a new Adult Social Care Model of Care for the county.
Cabinet is being asked to acknowledge the findings of a recent public consultation and endorse the strategic direction for developing the new model.
The council says the approach will be strengthened through co-production, with people who draw on care and support, carers, providers and other stakeholders all involved in shaping future services.
The report also asks councillors to note that the co-produced Model of Care is expected to return to Cabinet in September 2026.
A public consultation was held between October and December last year, inviting views from people who use services, carers, families, staff, community groups, residents and providers.
The consultation received 1,622 questionnaire responses, as well as letters, emails and feedback from stakeholder organisations.
Responses described current services as essential lifelines, particularly highlighting the importance of trusted staff relationships, familiar routines and support being close to home.
Around 76% of respondents disagreed with the reprovision proposals. The council says concerns were often focused on how change was presented, rather than improvement itself.
Feedback also made clear that any future changes must meet individual needs, maintain or improve standards of care, and ensure support remains close to home.
Many respondents said they would need to understand what a better local alternative would look like before any decisions are made.
The council says any future proposals will be developed with people and communities, and supported by Equality Impact Assessments and other checks to make sure improvements are safe, fair and focused on what matters most.
Officials have stressed there will be no change at this stage to the care and support people currently receive.
In February, the council also announced there was no intention to close any of the five care homes featured in the consultation.
Helen Coombes, Executive Director for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said: “Our priority is that people in Lancashire can live well and independently for as long as possible, with the right care and support around them when it’s needed.
“This report sets out what we heard during the consultation and the strategic direction for developing our new Adult Social Care Model of Care, shaped with people who draw on care and support, carers, our workforce, providers and communities.
“Every decision will start with people’s experience, protecting relationships, continuity and support close to home, and focusing on key areas like dementia care, reablement, respite, supported living for younger adults and community-based day opportunities.
“We’ll work openly with people to develop options, and we won’t bring proposals forward without understanding local impact and completing the necessary assessments.”
Subject to Cabinet approval, co-production work will take place over the coming months, with an update due to be presented to Cabinet in the autumn.