Strategy for Adult Social Care

Adult social care in County Durham plays a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

From helping people live independently in their own homes, wherever possible preventing or delaying them from becoming dependent on care services, to providing support with daily activities and access to community services.

Creating a new strategy

Durham County council (DCC) are creating a new strategy for adult social care, that will guide how they deliver services in the future. This strategy will bring together our current work and set a clear direction for how they can improve outcomes and support better lives for adults with care and support needs and their families and carers.

Whether you have direct experience with adult social care or not, your views are important. DCC want to understand what matters most to you, what would you want from their services in the future, what do you think of their current services, and how they can do better.

Visit the Lets Talk County Durham page for more information on this public consultation.

Bishop Auckland Town Council welcomes Durham County Council’s continued commitment to engaging residents, service users, carers and stakeholders in shaping Adult Social Care services across County Durham.

The Council recognises the essential role Adult Social Care services play in supporting vulnerable residents to live independently, maintain their wellbeing and remain active members of their communities. The Council supports the priorities set out within the Adult Social Care Strategy and particularly welcomes the focus on prevention, early intervention and community-based support.

The Town Council would encourage Durham County Council to:

1. Continue investing in preventative services that help residents maintain independence and reduce reliance on higher-level care.
2. Ensure carers are recognised and supported as key partners in care provision.
3. Strengthen links with town and parish councils, voluntary organisations and community groups to improve local awareness of available services and support.
4. Promote opportunities for residents to engage in service design through consultation and user forums.
5. Ensure services remain accessible, responsive and inclusive, particularly for older people, disabled residents and those living in rural or isolated communities.
6. Develop clear communication pathways so that residents can easily access information, advice and support when needed.

Bishop Auckland Town Council supports a person-centred approach to Adult Social Care and welcomes ongoing engagement opportunities to help ensure services meet the changing needs of County Durham’s communities while promoting independence, dignity and wellbeing.