This report will inform members of progress made within Adult Social Services in relation to the implementation of the Personalisation Agenda. The report will cover the evaluation of Personal Budgets, the Resource Allocation System (RAS) and how the Department is implementing and embedding self directed support for the citizens of Wirral.

The Interim Director of Adult Social Services reported upon progress in the implementation of personalisation within the Department for Adult Social Services (DASS) and highlighted key changes that were required to be further progressed. He commented that personalisation and the associated policies and procedures that underpinned it represented a significant shift in the way that DASS supported people who used services. Activity in the area was subject to change, reflecting national and local developments and consequently, the Department needed to review continually the way it worked. The Department aimed to enhance the quality of life for people who had care and support needs through accessing and receiving self directed assessment and a personal budget. It therefore needed to ensure that its policies and procedures were appropriate and robust to support the people who used services.

Resolved –

(1)  That the report be noted.

(2)  That a further update report from DASS be presented in Spring 2012 in relation to process and procedures within the department that seek to enhance the customer journey.

(3)  That Cabinet agrees to consultation with Carers in relation to a revised Carers Resource Allocation System (RAS) and banding system.

(4)  That Cabinet agrees to the procurement of a supplier to provide a Prepaid Card service for people who use Personal Budgets and Direct Payments.

(5)  That Cabinet agrees to an accreditation process for Support Planning and Brokerage to be undertaken and progress reported back as part of the update report to Cabinet in Spring 2012.