Agenda item

The Adult Social Care Prevention Strategy (2025-2030) sets out 5 key strategic priorities to reduce, delay or prevent the need for long term care and support for people living in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

The strategy has been shaped by the views and experiences of local people, carers, the voluntary and community sector and partners. It aims to develop a sustainable approach to prevention in adult social care. The strategy emphasises early intervention, the promotion of wellbeing, and collaboration with key partners, to not only prevent the development of long-term needs, but also to enhance the overall quality of life for people living in the BCP Council area.

The Interim Director of Commissioning and Strategic Commissioning Manager presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'C' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

The Adult Social Care Prevention Strategy (2025–2030) set out five key strategic priorities to reduce, delay or prevent the need for long-term care and support for people living in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

The strategy was shaped by the views and experiences of local people, carers, the voluntary and community sector and partners. It aimed to develop a sustainable approach to prevention in adult social care. The strategy emphasised early intervention, the promotion of wellbeing, and collaboration with key partners, to not only prevent the development of long-term needs, but also to enhance the overall quality of life for people living in the BCP Council area.

The Committee discussed the report and responses to queries were provided, including:

• The Committee welcomed the alignment of the Prevention Strategy with the Adult Social Care Strategy and the Future Care programme. It was noted that the approach focused on early intervention, recovery, and reducing reliance on traditional models of care.
• In response to a query raised regarding future targets and investment, the Committee was advised that officers were exploring short-term interventions and preventative models, with a view to reinvesting long-term funding into approaches that promote independence and avoid crisis escalation.
• The Committee was informed that work was underway to develop a dementia hub model at the Moordown centre, aimed at supporting carers and improving early access to advice and support. This was highlighted as an example of proactive, community-based prevention.
• The Committee was advised that reablement services were being reviewed to ensure individuals benefit fully from both at-home and residential support. It was noted that maintaining service capacity and improving outcomes were key priorities.
• The Committee was advised that future KPIs would focus on individual outcomes such as confidence, independence, and mobility, rather than solely operational metrics. This would support a more evidence-based approach to measuring the impact of preventative work.
• In response to a query regarding services that provide wider benefits beyond the individual service user, including respite and support for families and carers, the Committee was advised of the importance of reaching individuals before the crisis point and the commitment to broadening service accessibility and awareness.
• The Committee was advised that the strategy seeks to move away from models of care that create dependency and instead promote approaches that enable and empower individuals within their communities.
• It was noted that the three towns within BCP have distinct community needs, and the strategy aims to be dynamic and responsive to those differences.
• The Committee was advised that the strategy is informed by work with the LGA and national best practice, and that evidence of impact will be key to shaping future investment decisions.
• The Committee supported the direction of the strategy and welcomed further updates on its implementation and impact.

RECOMMENDED that the Committee support the recommendation to Cabinet to approve the Adult Social Care Prevention Strategy, contained in Appendix 1 to the Report.

Voting: For - Unanimous