Solihull Council has today (Tuesday 17 October) launched a new initiative encouraging people to play an active role in shaping the future of adult social care across the borough.
The Council is asking people with lived experience of care or caring to sign up for the Get Involved project so they can use their expertise to influence care and support services.
Cllr Tony Dicicco, cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health, explains why this approach is needed. “Involving people who have first-hand experience of care and support is the best way to ensure that our services meet people’s needs and expectations. And the more people we can involve the better, because that diversity gives us a richer insight into what’s needed.”
He continues: “We’re reaching out to people who already receive support from the Council but we’re also keen to involve you if you arrange and pay for your own care, as you may not have any contact with the Council. Please register your interest today and tell us which topics interest you. It could be support for people with dementia, supported employment or how to stay independent at home. We want to hear from you.”
The launch coincides with the first meeting of the Council’s Learning Disability Partnership Board. Board members include people with learning disabilities and carers who will use their personal experience and expertise to influence topics including employment, independent living, health and wellbeing.
Richard Clarke is chair of the Learning Disability Partnership Board. He says: “We want to make a difference and help people with learning disabilities live a better life. By bringing together people with lived experience of disabilities, Council officers and partners we’re strengthening the local network. It’s all about getting voices together to be as one.”
You can register for Get Involved on this website, by emailing the Engagement Team getinvolved@solihull.gov.uk or picking up a Get Involved registration form at our libraries or community advice hubs.