The Adult Social Care & Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Bexley Council convened on Tuesday, 25 June 2024, to discuss several key topics, including the Care Quality Commission (CQC) Assurance Programme, the Care at Home Transformation, and the Primary Care Recovery Plans. Decisions were made to approve the Primary Care Sub-Group's recommendations and to establish a joint subgroup for the SEND priority action plan.

Care Quality Commission Assurance Programme

The committee received an update on Bexley's Care Quality Commission self-assessment, self-assurance, and action plan, as well as the new adult social care vision and market position statement published in March 2024. Director Yolanda Dennehy and Deputy Director Jim Beale highlighted the strengths and areas for development identified in the self-assessment. Key strengths include integration with health partners through Bexley Care and the safeguarding adults board. Areas needing improvement include personalization of services and addressing gaps in the borough, such as extra care sheltered accommodation. The committee agreed to follow up on the quarterly reviews of the self-assessment.

Care at Home Transformation

An update was provided on the Care at Home Transformation, which aims to improve outcomes for individuals and the quality of home care services. The transformation involves reducing the number of providers from 42 to six strategic partners, focusing on a population-based model rather than a time-and-task approach. The committee discussed the ongoing challenges and progress, including the importance of quality assurance and financial monitoring. The committee agreed to conduct reality-checking visits to assess the implementation of the new model.

Primary Care Recovery Plans

The Primary Care Sub-Group presented its report and recommendations, which were approved by the committee. The recommendations focus on improving access to primary care, addressing disparities in GP services across the borough, and enhancing communication with residents. The committee agreed to monitor the implementation of these recommendations and to review the impact of the Pharmacy First programme by the end of the year.

Work Programme and Other Items

The committee discussed and approved the work programme for 2024-2025, including the addition of items such as the Shared Lives programme, community day hubs, and updates on the Better Care Fund and direct payments recommendations. The committee also agreed to establish a joint subgroup with the Children's Services and Education Overview and Scrutiny Committee for the SEND priority action plan.

NHS Synovus Cyber Attack

An update was provided on the NHS Synovus cyber attack, which affected pathology services for Guy's and St. Thomas' and King's College hospitals. Mutual aid arrangements have been made with St. George's and Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trusts to support GP practices in Bexley. The committee was informed that the situation is being closely monitored and that a national helpline is available for those concerned about the impact of the attack.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the Public reports pack and the Status Report Cover Template June 2024.