In a remarkable stride towards innovation and support for the adult population who have care and support needs, Surrey County Council has laid out a forward-thinking budget that aims to transform Adult Social Care (ASC) through technology and significant investment. At the heart of this progressive plan, announced by Councillor Sinead Mooney at the Council's Budget Meeting in February 2024, is a commitment to leveraging technology to enhance independent living, alongside a notable financial boost to the sector.
Under the Conservative administration's stewardship, Surrey County Council is set to increase its spending on adult social care by 6%, adding an additional £27.2 million to the budget. This increase is especially commendable given the relentless and challenging backdrop of rising demand for services, the financial implications of the national living wage, and inflationary pressures. These challenges are not unique to Surrey but are part of a national crisis, as highlighted by the chairman of ADASS (Association of Directors of Adult Social Services) at the recent National Children's and Adults Services Conference, which reported a significant increase in individuals awaiting assessments and an overwhelming consensus on the need for extra and specialist accommodation.
Addressing these challenges, Surrey County Council has proudly met its ambitious target to deliver 725 units of Extra Care (EC) accommodation by 2030. This initiative is a cornerstone of the council's strategy to support its ageing population, providing modern, tech-enabled living spaces that promote independence and well-being. The council has already achieved full planning approval for one site and outline planning approval for two additional sites, with construction set to commence in 2024. These developments will not only offer state-of-the-art living environments but will also incorporate modern, person-centred Technology Enabled Care (TEC), ensuring residents receive the highest standard of care and support.
The council's investment extends beyond Extra Care units, with plans to deliver 500 units of Supported Independent Living for Learning Disabilities & Autism (SIL LD&A), 200 units of SIL for Mental Health (SIL MH), and short break facilities for working-age adults with LD&A. This comprehensive approach underscores the council's dedication to creating a quality and financially sustainable care market. Collaborations with providers, the Surrey Care Association, and the wider market are underway to manage inflation, stabilise the social care workforce, and streamline contracting arrangements. These efforts aim to reduce the high-cost variations in care costs, ensuring a more predictable and manageable financial landscape for care providers.
Councillor Mooney's speech at the budget meeting emphasised not just the financial commitment but also the innovative spirit driving Surrey County Council's approach to adult social care. By integrating technology into care strategies and building modern, adaptable living spaces, Surrey is setting a benchmark for how local governments can respond to the complex challenges of social care. The council's proactive measures, from technological integration to strategic investments, illustrate a deep-rooted commitment to improving the lives of its ageing population, ensuring Surrey remains at the forefront of compassionate, innovative, and sustainable social care solutions.
Case Study: Transforming Lives through Innovation and Care
Among the many residents who will benefit from Surrey County Council's transformative approach to adult social care is Eleanor, a 72-year-old retiree with a passion for painting and gardening. Eleanor recently moved into one of the newly constructed Extra Care (EC) units, designed to support independent living through advanced technology and personalized care.
Before moving to her EC unit, Eleanor faced several challenges that made living independently difficult. Mobility issues and the lack of social interaction had started to take a toll on her health and well-being. The situation changed dramatically, however, when she became one of the first residents to benefit from Surrey's investment in tech-enabled care and supportive living environments.
Eleanor's new home is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that not only ensures her safety but also promotes her independence. Motion sensors help monitor her movements, providing alerts if there's a fall or if she needs immediate assistance. Smart medication dispensers remind her when to take her medication, reducing the risk of missed doses. Perhaps most transformationally, the inclusion of digital platforms has enabled Eleanor to stay connected with her community, friends, and family, combating the loneliness that had begun to creep into her life.
The impact on Eleanor's life has been profound. She has rediscovered her love for painting, using the communal areas to teach art classes to fellow residents. The accessible garden has reignited her passion for gardening, where she now spends her mornings tending to flowers and vegetables. This vibrant community setting, supported by modern technology and a caring staff, has provided Eleanor with a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
Eleanor's story is just one example of how Surrey County Council's commitment to adult social care is making a real difference in people's lives. By prioritizing technology, investment, and collaboration, the council is not only addressing the immediate needs of its aging population but also fostering a community where every individual can thrive independently, with dignity and joy.
This case study aims to bring to life the tangible benefits of Surrey County Council's initiatives, highlighting the council's dedication to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through innovative solutions and compassionate care.
Please note: The case study provided is entirely fictional and was created for illustrative purposes. It does not depict any real individuals or events, but is designed to showcase the potential positive impacts of Surrey County Council's initiatives on adult social care and the lives of Surrey residents.
