Partnership helps shape new approach

CHARITIES, community groups, carers and people with lived experience are helping shape a new approach to commissioning health and social care services in Dumfries and Galloway.

A report to Dumfries and Galloway Integration Joint Board highlighted how a new Public Social Partnership is bringing organisations together earlier to identify challenges, develop solutions and influence future service design.

The partnership is being developed jointly by Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership, Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, as well as several third sector organisations. As it develops further, it's anticipated other third sector organisations and community groups will join.

Alan Webb, chief executive of Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway, said: “This is a significant opportunity to build on the strengths, knowledge and experience which already exist within communities across Dumfries and Galloway.

“The third sector works alongside people and communities every day and brings valuable insight into the challenges people face and the support which can make a difference.

"By ensuring organisations, carers and people with lived experience can co-design services and models of support, we have an opportunity to help shape services around individual and community needs and experiences.”

The model supports wider ambitions to strengthen prevention, deliver more support within communities and improve outcomes by drawing on the expertise and experience available across the region.

Presenting the paper, Viv Gration said: “The intention is that over the next couple of years this will help reduce people’s need for formal care and therefore help address the current pressures on statutory services.”