On Monday 10 September, Executive agreed to a consultation looking into the future delivery of day services for older people in Luton.
Day services are provided for older and vulnerable people to support them to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community, while developing friendships and taking advantage of other community-based activities.
Day centres, which play a pivotal role in Luton’s day services, also provide much needed respite for family members and carers.
The 90 day consultation will look at how the services could be provided and who is best placed to provide them.
Other local authorities have successfully adopted models where the operation and staff of day centres are transferred over to third sector organisations under identical terms and conditions. This consultation will look at whether this option is feasible in Luton.
Detailed discussions will commence with customers, carers, family members and staff to get their views on the proposals.
Cllr Mahmood Hussain, Portfolio Holder for adult social care, said: “I would like to make it absolutely clear that no decision has been made and I have asked for a comprehensive consultation looking at various options for the future delivery of older people day services.
“While day centres are not a statutory duty, we know it is a highly valued service for many older people in Luton and their carers, so we want to speak to as many people as possible to find out what they would like from the service.
“Unlike other authorities, we are not contemplating closing the centres, we are simply looking for a cost effective service that meets the needs of current and future services users and their families.”
Follow this link for information on how to give your views on the day care consultation or call 01582 54 71 31.
You will be able to complete an online survey from 17 September.