CASH BOOST FOR ELDERLY CARE

The Independence First project will identify older people who might otherwise need hospitalisation or institutional care and help them to live independently in their own homes, avoiding the need for admission to hospital.

"This funding will make a big difference to the lives of older people", says Councillor Bill Bentley, lead member for adult social care.

"Winning this money means that, along with our health partners, adult social care can support GPs and make a start on reducing the need for elderly people to be admitted to hospital who don't need to be there.

"Looking after our elderly and vulnerable people in the County continues to be one of the County Council's highest priorities. This is one of a number of initiatives we are taking to ensure that elderly people who want to remain living in their own home can do so."

The project will reduce the necessity for admission to hospital and also improve services for people with long-term health conditions. There is also a strong emphasis on the challenges faced by people with mental health needs in the scheme.

Specialist teams will identify individuals and offer specialised services to them, such as help with managing their medicines, recovering after a fall, help with osteoporosis or memory planning. Staff undertaking out of hours assessments will be increased, supporting GPs and avoiding the need for hospital admissions.

Many partner organisations have been involved so far in the project and will be involved in its delivery, including local health services, mental health services, and a wide range of voluntary sector groups working with older people. Older people themselves were involved in shaping the funding bid, and it is hoped that there will be similar involvement in its delivery.

The demand for services for older people is growing in East Sussex. The county has the highest proportion of people over 75 of any county in England, and the number of elderly and very elderly people is projected to double between 2003 and 2028 according to the Office for National Statistics.