Decision Maker: Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: March 12, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   The Committee:   1. Reviewed and provided feedback on the co-production, engagement and evaluation process and outcomes followed in relation to Fowey Community Hospital including the recent, final 5-week phase of public engagement and completion of an equalities impact assessment ahead of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Board (CIOSICB) reaching a decision in May 2025.   2. Note the significant investment into development and ongoing transformation of community services in the area since the Fowey community hospital was temporarily closed in 2016.   3. Note the recommendation to the CIOSICB that Fowey Community Hospital is not viable for healthcare provision, and that:   a. The minor injury service and inpatient beds should remain permanently closed.   b. CFT and NHS Property Services are asked to consider key themes raised during the engagement process in their decision making about the future use of the garden and building and specifically the request that the community benefits from any future use of the site.   c. CFT in partnership with the Fowey community, explore if and how Fowey Hospital restricted charitable funds can be reallocated to benefit the health of the local community, noting this would require approval by the CFT Board, and possibly an application to, and approval from, the Charity Commission.   d. CIOISCB continues to engage with the local community to further develop the local model of care using feedback as appropriate from the 5-week engagement process and specifically: • Improving access to primary care appointments. • Exploring the feasibility of establishing a community hub in Fowey like that provided in Par. • Increased focus on long-term condition prevention and management – for example extending the library blood-pressure monitoring scheme to operate from Fowey Pavilions. • Optimising use of newer local services that allow people to remain at home or avoid travel to other sites.   e. CIOSICB develops and implements an action plan (appendix 3) outlining next steps in response to the engagement exercise which includes community and engagement activities such as:   • Raising awareness using local channels including Fowey News and the Fowey Town Forum Facebook page about:   o how to access the Minor Injury Service provided by Fowey River Practice. o new services such as virtual wards, Bodmin Clinical Assessment and Treatment Unit using local case studies. o transport options and the how to source help for accessing.   • The benefits of adopting a "Home First" approach when planning hospital discharges, addressing the long-standing misconception that delays in acute hospital discharges (often termed 'bed blocking') are primarily caused by a lack of step-down beds. Evidence should highlight that most people can be safely supported at home with the right care, reducing reliance on community hospital beds.   ACTION: Details of the covenants in respect of the garden and buildings be provided to Members.