CSED steps up reablement drive

Twelve of the region’s local authorities are working with CSED on developing their reablement services.

The DH led CSED programme helps councils find ways of improving the quality and delivery of care by adopting better ways of working, seeking greater value for money and sharing best practice.

One of its projects, the Reablement Service Development Programme, supports councils’ efforts to establish and improve their reablement services.

Reablement entails intensive short term support - usually no more than six weeks – for people with poor physical or mental health.

Delivered by teams of home care assistants, occupational therapists and social workers; service users learn or relearn skills impaired by illness. Support covers all aspects of personal care and routine activities such as making a cup of tea, using a microwave, or making a phone call.

The aim of the programme is to reduce the number of people requiring ongoing support and improve their level of independence.

By the end of March 2011, councils in the West Midlands are expected to:

• route 95% of referrals through reablement
• reach the 60% target of service users no longer needing ongoing support
• reduce by 40% ongoing support to the remaining 40% of service users
• spend on average £2,000 per head on reablement services – current cost of home support averages £6,000 per head each year.

• Success will be measured by:
• improved quality of life for the individual with increased choice and control
• the increase in numbers of people who receive reablement no longer requiring ongoing support
• the increase in referrals who receive reablement support
• reduction in spending on home and residential support.

CSED’s reablement specialists in the West Midlands are:

Helen Miller, email: Helen.Miller@dh.gsi.gov.uk, mobile: 07767464864; and

Simon Pickford, email: Simon.Pickford@dh.gsi.gov.uk, mobile: 07920 814129.