Agenda item

Report of the Assistant Director, Commissioning, Performance And Transformation

The Assistant Director Commissioning, Performance and Transformation submitted a report (previously circulated) to provide information in relation to Darlington’s Carers’ Strategy (‘Darlington’s Commitment to Carers 2023-28’) and progress in implementing the Strategy.

The submitted report advised that Darlington’s Commitment to Carers was launched on 17 April 2024 at a well-attended launch event, during which presentations were given by representatives from Darlington Carers Support, Family Action Darlington Young Carers and Darlington Borough Council, outlining Darlington’s Commitment to Carers and the support available to all groups of carers in Darlington. It was reported that attendees were also asked to identify actions they would take as their own Commitment to Carers, including participation in the social media campaign, and good progress has already been made in implementing the actions identified.

Members also received a presentation from the Commissioning Officer, the Chief Executive, Durham County Carers Support, and the Operations Manager, Durham County Carers Support, which provided Members with an overview of the key objectives of the Darlington’s Carers’ Strategy, the progress made under the Strategy to date, the focus of social media campaigns, and the support available for unpaid carers.

Discussion ensued on the reasons why someone may become an unpaid carer, with it noted that many might feel a ‘loving obligation’ to take on the caring responsibilities for a loved one or relative, with reference also made to those carers in full-time employment, child carers and elderly carers. Members were also keen to learn how Darlington Carers Support promoted the organisation, and whether there was scope for Councillors themselves to promote the organisation.

Members entered into discussion on the number of people who accessed the service, and the factors that qualified carers to receive Carers Allowance.

Members were also keen to learn more in relation to the Hospital Discharge Project, whether any work was undertaken with other hospitals in Darlington and whether the work undertaken with the Darlington Memorial Hospital facilitated a quicker discharge process. Focus was also given to individual needs, the sustainability of discharge and the safety of discharge, especially in light of potential winter pressures.  

RESOLVED – (a) That the content of the report be noted.

(b) That Members give consideration as to how they can support the delivery of the actions identified in Darlington’s Commitment to Carers.