The Appendix below may not be suitable to view for people with disabilities, users of assistive technology or mobile phone devices. Please contact clairemolyneux@wirral.gov.uk if you would like this document in an accessible format.

The Assistant Director for Care and Health presented the report which updated Members on a report brough to committee on 11 January 2023 regarding social care services currently delivered by Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (WCHCFT).

Members were presented with an update regarding arrangements required after the Council had made an offer of a short-term extension to the arrangements and included subsequent correspondence from WCHCFT.

Members were updated of the transfer progress so far, including a robust programme of work. The transfer date identified as the earliest possible date is 1^st July. The appendix of the report set out the workstreams. The staff consultation was undertaken by the Community Trust and once the staff list for transfer was confirmed, consolation would commence. The transfer will be under Transfer of Undertakings (protection of Employment) (TUPE). Areas of focus were I.T kit, as well as estate requirements as staff were co-located. Both of these areas were flagged as complex areas of work. Comprehensive communications plans are supplemented by single point contacts. The themes are collated and questions and answers and sent out to staff for information. There was still outstanding confirmation required regarding pensions, but costs for this has been factored in.

Members queried the costings of the project, as well as the challenges of undertaking the transfer with shorter time scales than originally requested. Concerns were raised that patient’s welfare should not be adversely affected and sought assurances that the transfer would not compromise this.  

On a motion by Councillor Nolan, seconded by Councillor Davies it was -

Resolved (9:2) – That

1. the planned arrangements for the service transfer and the project plans as detailed within the report and its appendices be endorsed.

2.  the Director of Care and Health be authorised to make the necessary arrangements for the transfer.