Decision details

There is an increasing number of referrals into the Short Term Enablement Programme, (STEPS) via hospital discharges, for both single and double-handed packages of care.

Where there is a capacity shortfall, evidence suggests in the current system that people either are placed in short-stay care, or can miss the opportunity to access Intermediate Care services at home. This can result in people being prescribed a traditional care package that “does for
people” rather than an enabling approach of “doing with”, which has been identified as being more effective.

(See attached Officer Decision Record for further details)

To increase the staffing capacity within the Short Term Enablement Programme, (STEPS) to ensure adequate provision to meet increasing demands upon the service, to support people to remain and return home following a period of illness.

(See attached Officer Decision Record for further details)

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED AND REJECTED

OPTION 1 – Increase the staffing resource within STEPS
To increase the staffing resource within STEPS to enable more people to benefit by returning home, maximising their independence and preventing or delaying the need for longer-term services, reducing the need for short-term placements in a residential setting.
RECOMMENDED

OPTION 2 – Maintain existing service provision
Maintaining current levels of service provision will result in the lack of capacity to meet the current demands upon the service. This option will result in greater numbers of people entering short term with the potential of them
losing further independence and risking the need for them to need ongoing long term residential care
REJECTED