The Social Care & Tackling Poverty Service Transformation Committee met on Monday 9 December 2024 to discuss several key areas, including the early help approach in adult services, the transition process for young people moving from child to adult services, and support for parents and carers of children with additional needs. The committee also received information on the Swansea Poverty Truth Commission's Rehumanising Systems and Services Charter and reviewed the work plan for the upcoming year.

Adult Services Early Help Approach

The committee received a report outlining the strategic approach to prevention and early help within Adult Services. This approach is designed to support individuals earlier to maintain their independence and delay or reduce the need for managed care. The strategy involves enhancing existing Enabling Communities, Prevention, and Early Help offers, developing clearer referral pathways, defining performance measures, and repurposing resources. Councillors expressed concerns about communication, particularly in reaching vulnerable individuals and ensuring they are aware of the available support. Officers highlighted existing initiatives such as the Common Access Point, the One Stop Information Shop, and the Collaboration Station, while acknowledging the challenges in engaging those who are reluctant to seek help. The committee was invited to provide feedback on the proposed next steps.

Transition (Child to Adult)

The committee discussed the ongoing work to improve the transition process for young people with disabilities or additional learning needs moving from child and family services to adult services. The report emphasised a commitment to a needs-led approach, aiming to make the transition as smooth as possible for young people and their families. Key areas of focus include developing a clear transition policy, piloting an updated transition assessment, and ensuring early planning, ideally starting from age 14. Councillors praised the dedication of the officers and the focus on supporting families during this critical period. The committee was asked to provide their views on the developments.

Swansea Poverty Truth Commission - Rehumanising Systems and Services Charter

This item was presented for information, introducing the Rehumanising Systems and Services Charter developed by the Swansea Poverty Truth Commission. The charter aims to promote a compassionate and human-centred approach in all services. It commits organisations to treating everyone with dignity and humanity, building supportive relationships, and delivering accessible services. The commission, which includes individuals with lived experience of poverty and key decision-makers, has been instrumental in developing this charter. The council plans to develop a framework to help implement the charter within its own services, potentially piloting it in specific areas. Councillors expressed strong support for the charter, highlighting the importance of empathy and respectful treatment when individuals are seeking help.

Supporting Parents & Carers of Children with Additional Needs

The committee received an overview of the short break provisions available for children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, as well as for their parents and carers. The report detailed various commissioned services, including residential respite at Ty Laura, family link foster carers, and daytime respite through Action for Children and Local Aid. Initiatives like Buddies for young people with severe learning difficulties and POPS (Positive Outcome Play Service) were also highlighted. The council is reviewing its short breaks offer due to increased demand and aims to enhance communication and explore innovative ways to utilise resources, including direct payments. Councillors commended the improvements in services compared to previous years and emphasised the vital role of short breaks for both children and their families.

Work Plan 2024-2025

The committee noted the work plan for the upcoming year. Future meetings are scheduled to cover topics such as placement sufficiency and sustainability, the tackling poverty strategy, adult services day opportunities, and an update on work related to drug abuse. The annual report will be presented in April.