‘Overhaul planning for complex needs’

The way social care providers commission services for people with
complex needs should be overhauled, according to Turning Point
chief executive Victor Adebowale.

At a session on complex need and social care, Adebowale said: “We
have to recognise the need for three yearly planning in the
commissioning process rather than annually. For many people with a
range of needs the reality is that services are delivered in a
rigid budget-led way.”

Adebowale also called for the voluntary sector to take on a wider
role in the delivery of social care.

But Community Care editor Polly Neate told delegates that
the main responsibility laid with local authorities. “In order to
develop a coherent vision local authorities need to be empowered
first,” Neate said.