Review shows need for better links between groups and clearer info about reablement help for hospital patients going home.
Stockton Council heard from the charity Catalyst. Catalyst supports local community groups. More connection between them is needed. Catalyst’s CEO, Lucy Owens, spoke to the council.
Owens said community groups help fill gaps in care. They offer support and practical help. Groups change quickly as needs change. Volunteers make a big difference.
She mentioned “Home But Not Alone.” This volunteer project aids hospital patients. Age UK and Mind offer befriending services. They also have volunteer drivers. Exercise classes help cardiac patients.
A leader is needed to unite community efforts. Catalyst needs funding for volunteer management. Owens seeks funding for a strategic overview. This would improve services a lot.
Many groups exist in Stockton, she said. The problem is no easy way exists to link them. Catalyst brings groups together through forums. They offer referrals when they know about services.
Catalyst tries to find available support. Not all groups connect with them. Actively finding this info is a definite gap. Owens wants funding for this strategic role.
Councilor Lynn Hall spoke about the voluntary sector. “We can’t do it all on our own,” she stated. Hall sees Catalyst as a main contact. She’s upset about the funding situation.
Hall wants frontline staff to connect with Catalyst. She expected a strategic overview. Lack of this approach upsets her. Connecting is needed for residents. Otherwise, they work alone.
Hall mentioned the reablement scheme. This free six-week program helps people stay home. The voluntary sector’s help also matters. Solid links are very important.
Public health officials are reviewing volunteering. This is part of a “Powering Our Futures” program. Adult social care focuses on information directories. Voluntary groups should update these. Direct knowledge helps reablement.
Hall stressed person-to-person links are key. Managers need to be named contacts. The council found a critical gap. Addressing this is a matter of urgency. The council needs to know who to contact.
“Reablement” is not a well-known term. Many people don’t understand it. It helps people live safely at home longer. The term should be simpler. It helps people be comfortable and happy.
The reablement service is good. Services should emphasize this to people. Gavin Swankie wants action pushed up. He will take actions forward. The right details must be available.
Owens addressed funding and service costs. She spoke about capacity and awareness. Information sharing and perceptions add barriers.