Private firms could help run home care

A NEW home care model involving private companies could be introduced in Gwynedd.

The service, which helps older people continue to live in their own homes, has been subject to a twoyear discussion between Gwynedd Council and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

The authority, which received cabinet approval last week, will forge ahead with further talks to establish a new model of providing and commissioning home care on a sub-area basis in Gwynedd – which it hopes will result in joint commissioning with the health board.

It’s envisaged the final model would see a “mixed market”, meaning the council would continue to provide at least half of the home care market in communities in the county, along with specialist firms in other communities.

This, according to councillors, should ensure better outcomes for users, improve staff terms and conditions and create a more sustainable home care market in the county and follows a successful pilot in Pen Llyn.

Chief executive Dilwyn Wlliams told a meeting it was felt the option was the best on the table while offering affordability.

However, he added there were some reservations the scheme could overspend if the expected savings were not realised.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig, cabinet member for care, conceded the changeover “would not happen overnight”.

If the health board agrees the proposals, it’s expected the tendering process will begin in October.