1 Summary

The following decisions are sought.

1.1 The Executive Member is asked to give approval in principle to the price for the provision of Continuing National Health Service (NHS) Heath care beds at the nursing homes managed by Hampshire County Council Social Services Department.

2 Reason(s)

2.1 Currently admission to the Nursing Homes does not cover those residents who meet the criteria under Continuing National Health Service (NHS) Health Care. This was because it was necessary to firstly establish `ordinary' nursing care within the homes prior to considering admission of those older people who have very high care needs, as defined under continuing health care criteria.

2.2 However, under Section 31 of the Health Act 1999 and the Partnership Regulations powers were introduced for local authorities to exercise various NHS functions, which include eligibility for admission to the Nursing Homes of those older people falling within the Continuing NHS Health Care.

2.3 This would be an innovative approach which would demonstrate good partnership working and offer a continuum of care.

2.4 This approach would also provide an additional income stream to the nursing homes.

3 Other options considered and rejected

3.1 The only alternative option is not to move forward with this proposal, but this would not be within the spirit of the principles of partnership working as agreed within the Partnership agreement identified in paragraph 2.2 above.

4 Conflicts of Interest declared by the decision-maker or other Executive Member consulted

None

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

None

6 Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

Not applicable

Approved by: Date of decision:

Councillor Patricia Banks