Published on:
02
July 2012
The Council has agreed a new approach to providing the care and repair service, which supports elderly and disabled people in Clackmannanshire.
In September last year the Council agreed to reconfigure the Care and Repair Service and an annual budget was agreed. Today's meeting of the Council agreed that the future service will have a greater focus on those in need and will be operated using small 'trusted traders' to carry out small repairs.
The service for homeowners and private tenants prioritises clients who are over 60, have a disability or long term illness, allowing them to remain living independently within the community. It provides information and advice; assistance with property repairs and maintenance work; carries out small repairs and assists with disabled adaptations.
Council Leader Gary Womersley said: "The Council wants to establish a more focused and cost effective service. It is essential that any service meets the needs of the local community at a cost that provides value for money."
The refocused service will begin when the Council's current agreement with Ochil View Housing Associated ends and both organisations will work together to ensure a smooth transition.
Councillor Womersley added: "Ochil View were invited to consider continuing to work with the Council in refocusing the care and repair service but, for various reasons, the Association were not able to meet the service requirements which had been set out. We will, of course, continue to work with Ochil View on a range of other matters and I intend to meet with the Chair of the Management Committee soon to discuss a number of important issues.
"Ultimately though we have secured best value and also enhanced outcomes for those who most benefit from the care and repair service.
"Keeping care and repair in Clackmannanshire was a priority for this Council and I am glad this vital service has been saved."
Full information about the reconfigured services will be made available to the public in due course.