Plan for shake-up of adult care in Cardiff

Plans for a major shake-up of home care services for some of Cardiff’s most vulnerable adults are being discussed.

Cardiff Council said the plans, which would cut the number of care providers from 56 to 11, aim to provide more efficient and effective care.

It would save an estimated £1.5m a year, affecting mainly older people receiving care at home, such as those with physical disabilities.

The council also plans to cut three top management posts to save £330,000.

Care providers support older and vulnerable people in the city with tasks such as washing and cleaning to enable them to live independently.

The proposals also include mental health services for older people.

Cardiff council said it would work with providers to address any concerns raised.

The plans include a “transitional period” where discussions would take place to identify risks and ensure “appropriate communication” with “service users and their families”.

The council said the level and quality of care would not change.

Councillor John Dixon, executive member for health, social care and wellbeing, said: “The council is committed to working closely with new, existing and exiting service providers to ensure minimal disruption to care received.

“I understand that the changes may cause anxiety for those affected.

“There will be a change for the people we provide services to, however the changes will be phased in over the course of the next six months, and we will be actively working to make sure the transition is as smooth as possible.”

A decision is expected on the proposals when they are discussed by the council on Thursday.

‘Positive early steps’

Meanwhile, Cardiff council is planning to cut three senior management posts to help protect frontline services.

The council said the move would save £330,000.

Chief executive Jon House has drawn up a new management model which would offer “strong officer leadership while at the same time making savings”.

Consultation will take place with council management before the plan is put before the executive in December.

Council leader Rodney Berman said: “All councils are facing funding cuts and Cardiff is taking positive early steps to deal with this.

“Protecting frontline services is my absolute priority and we need to look at streamlining management and administration to do that.”