Older People's Joint Commissioning Strategy 2013 - 2016

Joint press release on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council and the Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group

The Oxfordshire Older People’s Joint Commissioning Strategy 2013 – 2016 has been put together by the NHS, county and district councils, organisations that workwith older people and older people themselves.

Its aim is to enable people to live independent and successful lives by meeting the needs of ageing adults, older people, people with dementia and carers.

Consultation has already been carried out with a range of groups and organisations who represent and support older people, but the county council is encouraging anyone with an interest to take part.

County Councillor Arash Fatemian, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: “The strategy brings together all the agencies that provide services and support for older people in Oxfordshire.

“It sets out ways in which various organisations can work together more closely and make sure that older residents receive services in more efficient and effective ways.

“More importantly we are looking forward to Oxfordshire being a place where people are helped to stay healthier and more independent for longer so that they can live the lives they want to lead. We are asking for people’s views on the strategy now so that we can take into account what people think and perhaps learn from their experiences.” 

The strategy proposes six key areas which would mean that older people should be able to say: 

• I can take part in a range of activities and services that help me stay well and be part of a supportive community
• I get the care and support I need in the most appropriate way and at the right time
• When I am in hospital or longer term care it is because I need to be there.  While I am there, I receive high quality care and am discharged home when I am ready
• As a carer, I am supported in my caring role
• Living with dementia, I and my carers, receive good advice and support early on and I get the right help at the right time to live well
• I see health and social care services working well together

Find the consultation online here, or call  01865 323625 for printed copies.

The consultation closes on 31 January 2013. Comments received will be considered and will help shape the final version of the strategy which will be approved by the Health and Wellbeing Board later in the year.