Local authority balances care home versus social care priorities

East Lothian Council’s plans to open a new care facility in 2014, at the same time as feeling pressure to extend social care budgets, is a dilemma many more authorities look likely to face as the population ages.

The ruling Labour administration had been attacked by opposition SNP councillors this week, who accused the council of lacking commitment to the new care facility after councillor Donald Grant, the cabinet member for health and social care, told East Lothian News that because of ‘budget pressures’ and older people demanding more home care services, that the council was not tying itself to long-term commitments.

In order to calm local fears regarding the future of care facilities, councillor Donald Grant released this statement confirming certain commitments and on-going developments:

“The Abbey Care Home in North Berwick provides both long term and respite care for those who require it and is a hugely valued local resource. The Council is currently carrying out a review on the respite services provided to ensure that the service continues to meet the standards required by professional care inspectorate. It is a popular choice for many for longer term care and I would like to assure residents, families and staff that the council is continuing to invest in the Abbey so that it can continue to provide the highest quality of care.

“The Council managed care homes of Eskgreen and Greenfield Park, which are both situated in Musselburgh, also provide the highest quality of provision. The Council is currently seeking to extend the lease of Greenfield Park for another 18 months which means that residents will have a smooth transition when they move to the new Fa’side care home in Tranent, due to open in Autumn 2014.

“Fa’side is a new, purpose built care facility which will offer some of the best facilities anywhere in Scotland. The Day Centre will combine the best of social care and health services to assist elderly people to remain in their own homes and communities for as long as they wish. Another new Day Centre is currently under construction in Gullane and complements health services in the coastal towns and villages.

“The needs and wishes of our service users and families are at the heart of our service provision and management. Whilst the Council will continue to review care provision across the county this is to ensure that our services remain both efficient and appropriate. I am personally disappointed that some of the most vulnerable residents in our communities may have been upset by speculation and rumours. East Lothian has a growing population and is the choice location for many to set up home or to retire to. As the local authority we not only welcome this but also recognise our responsibilities to support and assist the diverse needs of all, but particularly the vulnerable, in our society.”