Voluntary organisations and providers of adult social services in Luton are invited to a special event to discuss the Care Act.
The Government’s Care Act is set to bring the most significant changes in adult social care in more than 60 years.
The event aims to start the conversation about what the changes will mean locally, help shape the market in Luton and to share Luton’s vision for the future of adult social care services.
It is aimed at service providers and voluntary organisations which provide care, preventative or wellbeing services to the residents of Luton.
In addition to networking, the event presents an opportunity to discuss ways in which care for Luton’s vulnerable residents can be improved through new and innovative services.
Due to be implemented nationwide from April, the Care Act will bring a sharper focus on ‘preventative’ approaches aimed at helping people stay well in their own homes for longer.
Almost all existing adult social care legislation will be replaced, and the Act also introduces a range of new responsibilities for the Council.
The changes aim to make care and support services clearer and fairer for everybody, and make it easier for people to plan ahead.
New national minimum eligibility criteria will be set for all councils across England, replacing a current system in which each council sets its own criteria for who is or is not eligible for adult social care services.
Luton’s informal carers, who look after a friend, relative or neighbour because of ill health, disability or old age, will also benefit by receiving the right to ask for support.
Other changes will see increased support through information, advice and advocacy, and the introduction of a cap on care costs to limit the amount individuals have to pay for their own care.
Cllr Mahmood Hussain, Portfolio Holder for adult social care, said: “With huge changes on their way it is vital that Luton is ahead of the game as much as possible.”
The event takes place Wednesday March 4 from 9.15am-12.30pm at Venue 360, 20 Gipsy Lane.
To book a place at the event email asccommissioningteam@luton.gov.uk or phone 01582 547646.
For more information about the Care Act visit www.luton.gov.uk/CareAct, email CareAct@luton.gov.uk or call 01582 547659.