New care network for older people

2010-02-12 19:45:47

Care minister Phil Hope has outlined plans for a community-based network of care services for older people which will be based on integrated working by both health and social services. In a drive to improve standards, Mr Hope is advocating a ‘personalised’ and ‘seamless’ approach to care which will see the establishment of integrated care centres across the UK. The centres will serve as a single point of contact for older people where they can access a wide range of NHS and social care services, all of which can be incorporated into a personalised care and support plan for each individual. 16 pilot sites are currently trialling the new project. Mr Hope comments: ‘If local NHS and social care services work together, we can cut costs and improve people’s quality of life. Our new network will help showcase services, share best practice and drive up the quality of care across the country.’