Decision details

RESOLVED

That the Cabinet:

a)         endorses and agrees the development of a local health, housing and social care MOU based on the priorities for action set out in 6.5 of report SHAP/80, drawn from existing Council strategies.

b)         delegates authority to the Head of Strategic Housing Services to act as signatory to the MOU and any associated protocols arising from it on the Council’s behalf and to approve any revisions required to ensure it continues to reflect the Council’s priorities.

(Generic Delegation 3 will be used to enact this recommendation).

Reasons for the Recommendations

Historically achieving the effective engagement of health service partners in addressing the often complex needs of those trying either to access accommodation or to sustain their existing accommodation has proved challenging.

A clear and shared understanding of a set of key commitments by health, social care and housing partners to address the greatest needs across local communities would complement, support and work alongside existing strategies, including the Council’s Homelessness and Rough Sleepers Strategy, in delivering improved outcomes and preventing and relieving homelessness.

The development of a local Health, Social Care and Housing MOU provides a reset opportunity for our relationship with health partners and a platform for improved engagement.