Joint Strategy for Ageing Well in Bromley (Verbal Update)
Minutes:
An update on the Joint Strategy for Ageing Well in Bromley was provided to the Board by Mark Davison, Interim Head of Programme Design (ECHS).
The development of the Joint Strategy for Ageing Well in Bromley was being informed by a comprehensive engagement process undertaken during Summer 2018 that had included online and hard copy surveys, face-to-face engagement sessions with existing groups and an open meeting for all Bromley residents. The consultation had been focused around four outcome statements comprising:
1) I socialise, participate and make my own choices;
2) I feel healthy and can get the health and care services I need when I need them;
3) My home meets my aspirations and needs; and,
4) I am safe and I feel safe and I trust the people around me.
The responses to the engagement process were now being evaluated, but initial analysis suggested that whilst responses to the four outcome statements had largely been positive, there were a number of issues including barriers to accessing leisure activities, access concerns with health and care services (particularly General Practitioners) and difficulties faced by those with caring responsibilities. Issues had also been raised around the lack of housing available in the Borough for those who wished to move to more suitable accommodation and the value of a visible police presence on the streets in helping older people to feel safe.
In response to a question from a Member, the Interim Head of Programme Design (ECHS) confirmed that as the survey had been designed locally, it could not be compare on a like-for-like basis with other local authorities, but that it might be possible to make a comparison across similar themes. The Member suggested that the Local Authority could do more to support older people seeking to move into accommodation more suitable for their needs, such as extra care housing schemes. A Member was concerned to note the level of social isolation identified by the engagement process, and highlighted the importance of engaging with hard-to-reach groups who were less likely to participate in activities or events.
RESOLVED that the update be noted.