Agenda item

The Panel received an update on the progress made in enhancing the range of community based provision for people with a learning disability following the reconfiguration of day centres in 2017.

The update included generally positive feedback from service users and their carers that had been effected by the changes to building based day centres, which had been reduced from 3 to 2, and the extension of community based activities.  The report highlighted that many service users said they were seeing more of their friends and learning new skills from the range of community activity, although some stated that the timing and transport arrangements for the activities could be further improved.  Members noted that the community based offer had been enhanced such as an allotment behind the Britwell Hub.  Of the seventy-eight people continuing to access day centre provision at either Priors, Phoenix or the new facility at the Britwell Hub, feedback at focus groups indicated they were happy with the activities offered.  Parents or carers also indicated their satisfaction with services. 

The Panel welcomed the consultation that had been carried out to ensure that the reconfigured services reflected the views of service users.  Members discussed the use of technology in promoting independent living skills, the future delivery of services from the Britwell Hub and the help provided to transport people to community based activities.  A question was asked about the costs and it was agreed that further information be provided on the comparative cost to other areas of day centre provision.

The point raised about transport provision led to a wider discussion about access to transport and services for people with disabilities.  It was reported that the Council was already taking action and was seeking to bring in Disability Action Guides locally, however, it was recognised that more action could be taken.  Members agreed to request that Cabinet affirm its commitment to make Slough a disability friendly town and then the Panel would establish a scrutiny Task & Finish Group to explore the further practical measures that could be taken to achieve this aim.

Resolved –

(a)  That the update on the Reconfiguration of the Borough’s Activities for People with Learning Disabilities be noted.

(b)  That it be arranged for the Panel to visit Phoenix Day Centre and Priors Day Centre following the refurbishment.

(c)  That a recommendation be made to the Cabinet to seek its commitment in principle to take further action to make Slough a ‘disability friendly town’.

(d)  That the Panel receive a report at the first meeting of the municipal year on 28th June 2018 to establish a Task & Finish Group to explore the practical issues and steps required to make Slough a ‘disability friendly town’.