Millions of pounds will be spent on helping older people retain their independence through extra care housing schemes.
Cambridgeshire County Council’s Adults and Health Committee approved new long-term contracts to continue the schemes at Mill View in Hauxton, South Cambridgeshire, and Willow Court in Whittlesey which was designed for people living with dementia.
Extra care housing schemes have been specifically designed to maximise older people’s independence with 18 currently operating in Cambridgeshire.
All tenants have their own apartment and benefit from the availability of the 24/7 on-site care and support service which is tailored to their needs. The residents also do not have to worry about repairs or maintenance issues which helps their overall wellbeing.
The committee voted on Thursday (March 9) to approve 10-year contracts for both schemes – with a six-month break clause – at a cost of more than £5.4 million.
The new contract will also include an obligation from providers that they pay their staff the Real Living Wage.
The bidding process for the contracts will begin in June with a decision made in September.
One of the criteria for choosing the winning bid will be the ‘social value’ they can offer, for instance allowing the wider community to use the resources at both schemes such as communal lounges.
Moreover, by offering long term contracts, this will enable the providers to plan for the future and invest in upskilling staff, for instance with technology to support people’s care. It will also allow them to think about how they can link in with the wider community.
Cllr Susan van de Ven, Vice-Chair of the Adults and Health Committee, said: “Extra care schemes are an important part of our commitment to helping people receiving care to remain independent for as long as possible.
“Another of our ambitions is to make social care more community-driven, which is why providers will have to demonstrate how they will become a focal point in their communities in order to win these contracts.”
The papers from the meeting can be viewed on the council’s website. To watch the meeting back, you can do so by visiting the council’s YouTube page.
