BETTER OUTCOMES FOR OLDER PEOPLE Framework for Joint Services for Older People
Leaflet for people who use services and carers
July 2004
This document is also available in pdf format (40k)
The Scottish Executive, NHS Scotland and local authorities have produced a draft Framework on how more joint services between health, housing, social work, private and voluntary organisations should be developed.
They have involved a wide range of people in developing the Framework and now are asking organisations and individuals to comment on the draft.
They are mainly services provided by local authorities and NHS Scotland together so that people and their carers get a joined up service, without having to go from one organisation to another.
Helping older people through joint services An older person, Mrs A, living with her daughter and grandchildren, fell at home. At A&E, no fracture was found and Mrs A was to be discharged home. The daughter, however, felt she could not look after her mother and independently arranged for her mother's admission to a care home. |
The Joint Older People's Team is now working with Mrs A at the care home to help her go back to her own home. The daughter has been supported by the Team's Social Worker while her mother will continued to be helped by the physiotherapist and community care workers when she returns home. Instead of going into a care home permanently, Mrs A has had a 3 week period of respite and has returned to her own home.
- Why have Joint Services ?
Joint services should provide better results than separate local authority and health services. In particular, they can help older people to live more independently in their own homes - which is what most older people want.
Example: Angus Care and Repair This service supports older and disabled home owners and private tenants who want to remain in their home and need help for example by carrying out home repairs, improvements or adaptations, on both a large and small scale. Angus Care and Repair is now going to carry out assessments in the home in order to help prevent slips, trips and falls. It also works closely with Police, Health, Council and Fire Service staff to promote home safety and security. |
Joint services can also assist carers to carry out their responsibilities.
Example: Dumfries & Galloway Health and Social Care Council - carers' information guide A Carers' Information Guide has been produced and is available in GP surgeries and libraries. It gives information on the services available and who carers should contact for help. A further information directory has also been produced by the Better Neighbourhood Services Fund which gives details details and contacts for caring agencies and other services for older people. |
- How will the Framework make a difference?
It sets out why joint services are important, and how to set them up. It also shows some of the successes so far. Local authorities and the NHS are being asked to show how their services are improving. The Framework will help them do this.
If you would like a copy of "Better Outcomes for Older People", or you want to make comments, please contact:
Gillian Garvie
Joint Future Unit
St Andrew's House
Edinburgh
EH1 3DG
Telephone: 0131-244 5424
E-mail: gillian.garvie@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
The Framework is available on the Scottish Executive website at: www.scotland.gov.uk/views/views.asp