Changes to delivery of home adaptations service to support people to live independently
An alternative way of providing equipment to support people to maintain their independence in their own home has been approved.
The County Council's Minor Adaptations Service provides certain equipment and can make adaptations to people's homes for free that have been recommended following a care needs assessment.
This equipment – which costs less than £1,000 - can include items such as grab rails to help people get in or out of their property and hoists to lift them from chairs or out of beds.
For those who are eligible, the County Council can recommend equipment and provide people with a prescription to obtain simple equipment from local retailers across Lancashire.
Councillors approved a new delivery model at their Cabinet meeting, on Thursday 4th September, which means district councils will become responsible for providing this service.
The benefits of this change includes reducing delays in people returning home from hospital or care settings, placing lower demand on wider public services and improved cost efficiency.
Consultations have taken place over the past 12 months to determine the future of the Minor Adaptations Service.
Engagement events were attended by representatives from district councils, social care, housing, health and third-sector organisations.
Councillor Graham Dalton, cabinet member for Adult Social Care, said:
"There has been increasing demand for this service over the past three years, so we hope that by making this change then people will be able to continue to benefit from adaptations to their home and continue to live independently.
"While the adaptations that are provided are classed as minor, they can make major improvements to people's lives by ensuring they can remain in their own home.
"This will also strengthen our relationship with district councils and build on work that already takes place across Lancashire."