A vote of thanks is being offered to people who have participated in ongoing public engagement relating to the future of health and care delivery.
A proposed new Care Hub in Blantyre – now subject to normal planning procedures – will serve South Lanarkshire.
Val de Souza, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, has reiterated her pledge that all views offered have been, and will be, carefully noted as proposals are finalised for consideration.
Two recent engagement events in Blantyre, which were supported by a range of staff and stakeholders, were attended by nearly 250 members of the public.
Ms de Souza said: “Communities themselves are a vital component of the partnership. I believe that the recent events, and the feedback we’ve received, exemplifies our commitment to openness, transparency and engaging in ongoing conversations.
“We are also committed to acting on this information and all views expressed are being carefully considered as the planning process continues.”
As the partnership continues to strengthen many of its community-based supports, increasingly, people who might previously have moved into a care home on a long-term basis because of ill health and/or growing dependency can be supported in their own home. The ongoing programme of modernising care homes and the proposed Care Hub concept seeks to build on this, offering people real choice and to live independently where possible and appropriate.
Survey results from the events – which have been published on the partnership website – demonstrated a strong sense of support for the direction of travel. The partnership also heard, however, that there is particular local concerns in Blantyre over issues including access, congestion, road safety and the impact of construction traffic.
Ms de Souza added: “Surveys were robust, comprehensive and undertaken in line with industry best practice.
“We intend to continue our wider engagement on this important issue across South Lanarkshire and we pledge to listen and take on board all viewpoints.”
A film which captured reflections from the event has now been published.
Surveys are available at this link.
The live planning application has recently had a few drawing revisions near the Joanna Terrace entrance to take into account public feedback an consultation.
