Views sought on reshaping care for older people in Stirling

A consultation is underway to encourage locals to give their views on the way older people’s services across Stirling and Clackmannanshire will be designed and delivered in the future.

Both Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils, in partnership with NHS Forth Valley, voluntary organisations and the independent sector, have developed a new plan which highlights the changes and improvements required to meet the needs of older people, their families and carers over the next ten years.

The aim of the plan is to enable older people to live “full and positive lives within their own homes for as long as possible” and, where this is no longer possible, within a homely setting within supportive communities.

During the consultation, which runs until June 15, anyone with an interest in services for local people will be able to provide feedback on the plans. They can do this by post, email or phone. Copies of the plan and details of how to respond can be found on the consultations section of the NHS Forth Valley website (www.nhsforthvalley.com).

A number of local information sessions have also been arranged in Stirling and Alloa to seek the views of the public, older people, carers and service providers on how services can be redesigned and improved to meet the needs of older people. These include: Stirling Community Hospital – April 29, 10am, noon, 2pm and 4pm, plus June 19 at 7pm; Alloa Town Hall – April 17, 10am and noon; and Whins Centre, Alloa – June 11, 7pm.

Kathy O’Neill, general manager for Community Health Services, NHS Forth Valley, said: “This new plan sets out how services would be reshaped to ensure we are able to meet the future needs of older people. This is particularly important as the number of people aged over 75 in Forth Valley is set to almost double in the next 20 years.

“It’s important to listen to what older people want to help us provide the right services, at the right time in the right place and I’d therefore encourage anyone with an interest in older people services to take part in this important consultation.”

Stirling Council social care and health convener Councillor Christine Simpson said; “Improving care for our vulnerable citizens is one of Stirling Council’s key priorities, and we are keen to involve older people and carers in this process and offer every opportunity for their voices and views to be heard.

“This insight will be invaluable in shaping the best possible services now and into the future.”

Clackmannanshire Council housing, health and care convenor Councillor Les Sharp said: “We are committed to ensuring services for older people are person-centred, safe, effective and delivered in a way that is respectful and preserves dignity.

“As the number of older people in the population continues to rise, our focus is on the development of innovative approaches which recognise the positive contribution older people make to our communities.

“I’d encourage everyone with an interest in older people to participate in this consultation exercise.”

The plan has been developed in response to the Scottish Government’s “Re-Shaping Care for Older People” initiative.