Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Fair access to care services - Consultation results

Approximately 7000 service users, carers, voluntary organisations, service providers and other stakeholders were consulted on the possibility of changing the eligibility criteria.  The consultation also gained people's views on the type of community based services that they would like to see if the change went ahead.   

The consultation generated an excellent response.  1340 survey responses were received from people in receipt of care, carers and members of the public.  In addition, a wide range of comments were gathered from around 30 meetings and events that were held in order to inform the consultation. We would like to say thank you to all those who took the time to respond and provide their views.

In terms of the main consultation proposal, the survey showed that 45% of respondents agreed with the idea of changing the eligibility rules, and 21% of respondents disagreed. Discussion at focus groups also highlighted general agreement with the proposal. However it is clear that a minority of respondents feel strongly against the proposed change. 

There was broad understanding of the reasons behind the proposed change (whether or not respondents agreed with it). 

In terms of the type of community services that people found important, the feedback can be themed in the following way:

• Transport
• Social interaction
• Household help
• Respite care and support for carers
• Advice and information

Many respondents referred to the importance of maintaining independence, and ensuring that services were designed in such a way as to help people to help themselves (where possible).  

The Committee's final report is now available and contains a detailed breakdown of the results and a record of all the comments that were made at one of the many engagement meetings and events that were attended by the consultation team.

If you have any issues regarding the services that you currently receive, please contact the First Contact Team.

If you have any queries in relation to the report itself, please contact the Fair Access to Care Team.