The recent recruitment of additional social care staff in Powys has led to a significant reduction in hospital discharge delays. With funding from a £1.3 million Pathways of Care Transformation Grant awarded by the Welsh Government, the number of patients waiting for social care support before leaving hospitals has decreased from 60 to 38 over the past year.
This initiative follows the council’s ongoing efforts to bolster the home care market and enhance the coordination of health services for Powys patients. The grant has facilitated the hiring of more social workers, occupational therapists, and enablement assessors, thereby improving the discharge process for those in community hospitals as well as larger district general hospitals in England, including facilities in Shrewsbury, Telford, and Hereford.
Significant Progress in Social Care Coordination
Councillor Pete Roberts, who serves as the Cabinet Member for a Caring Powys, emphasized the importance of this achievement. “Reducing social care delays at this time of year is a significant achievement and testament to the dedication of our front-line teams and the provision of extra funding by Welsh Government,” he stated. “We will continue to build on this progress to ensure patients receive timely, coordinated, and personalized care and support.”
The Pathways of Care Transformation Grant is part of a larger allocation, with a total of £30 million designated for county councils across Wales for community-based social care in the current financial year. The Welsh Government has directed Powys to utilize its share of the funds to focus on reducing waiting times for social worker assignments, completing assessments for social care, and initiating new community care packages.
Opportunities and Support for Social Care Workers
For those interested in pursuing a career in social care within Powys, the council has provided resources detailing available opportunities. Prospective workers can find more information on the council’s website, where details about working for Powys County Council and care agencies are available.
Additionally, individuals seeking support and advice can reach out to the council’s Front Door team. The council aims to ensure that residents across Powys have access to essential home support services, enhancing the overall care experience for patients transitioning from hospital to home.
As the demand for social care continues to evolve, the initiatives taken in Powys reflect a proactive approach to addressing these challenges, ultimately benefiting both patients and the healthcare system.
