New approach set to transform care delivery in Cornwall

Cornwall Council has unveiled a bold new care model designed to offer residents greater choice and control by involving them in all aspects of the decision-making process.

The initiative, spearheaded by a new Co-Production Steering Group that includes both care providers and people who experience care and support, is introducing an innovative new toolkit aimed at promoting person-centred care.

Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for adult social care and health, Cllr Andy Virr, outlined the primary goals of this personalised service approach. They include:

·        Better matching of resident needs.

·        Enhanced access for eligible individuals.

·        Support for sustained independence.

·        Creation of job opportunities for people with disabilities.

“The focus on personalisation is about leveraging people’s strengths and empowering them to make informed decisions about their care,” said Cllr Virr. “This not only fosters community-based support but also ensures maximum choice and control for residents.”

Central to this new model are the “Experts by Experience” – so called because they have personal experience of using care and support services in Cornwall – who will continue to play a crucial role in the ongoing development of services to meet real-world needs.

The Care Act 2014 backs co-production—a collaborative process involving people who use care and support services in service development—as vital for tackling significant social care challenges.

Cllr Virr said:

“Co-production is essential in empowering individuals to lead more independent lives. By actively involving those who use our services in their design and delivery, we ensure that their unique needs and strengths are truly reflected. This collaborative approach not only enhances the quality of care but also fosters a greater sense of ownership and self-determination among eligible residents.”

Leading the Co-Production steering group are the council’s strategic director for adult social care, Ali Bulman, and Expert by Experience David Burns, who worked alongside other experts to help develop the toolkit, with regular quarterly meetings and additional workshops guaranteeing continuous feedback and engagement with residents.

David said:

“I’m a co-chair of the co-production group, so I basically chair the meetings. My background is, I’ve got a learning disability so I think I’m qualified. 

“I wish everybody gets good support from the council, obviously sometimes, that doesn’t happen but I think if we work together and design services the way they should be then that should be minimised. So, I think it’s been a very good experience and I would recommend working with the council to anybody.”

This innovative approach marks a significant shift towards more inclusive and effective care and support delivery in Cornwall, promising substantial benefits for both residents and care providers alike.

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