Homecare Association response to the Section 75 consultation

We have responded to the Department of Health and Social Care's Call for Evidence on Improving integrated commissioning in health and social care. 

In our response we highlight the value, knowledge and experience that the social care sector has to offer in providing personalised care and understanding people's needs, preferences and family contexts. There is a need for social care providers to be included in strategic discussions within Integrated Care Systems. Appropriate integration, use of Section 75 arrangements and inclusion in multi-disciplinary teams at the frontline can follow on from this. 

In terms of expansion of functions covered by section 75: it is important that pooled budgets facilitate the preventative agenda, and home based social care has a part to play in this.

Additional safeguards may be needed. We are aware that some commissioners demonstrate a lack of understanidng of homecare services. It is important that complex care is only commissioned from organisations that are equipped to deliver it, and this will come at a higher cost.