Mother claims DHSC adult care support is being reduced

Department says 'gradual' post-Covid return is ongoing

It's expected adult social care support provided by government will be returned to pre-lockdown levels by next month.  

The Department of Health and Social Care had to 'substantially' strip back respite and day services during the pandemic to a core emergency service.  

They've gradually increased since lockdown eased, and by August, it's expected the Tall Trees Resource Centre and community services will fully reopen.

Though most staff have returned to their normal roles, some are still working to support other residential services.

As part of this transition, the needs of those using adult social care services are being reviewed. 

But a mother, who cares for her adult son with multiple complex needs, claims there's been a reduced package of care offered to her by the department after lockdown. 

Diane Torin feels distressed by the options offered by the department for the care of her son, who has multiple complex needs. 

Mrs Torin claims she's being presented with either reduced care, or the offer of a placement in residential care. 

She would still be allowed to visit her son, take him home as many nights a week as she feels able to, and be involved in all health appointments.

Mrs Torin had access to three nights respite care, and a mixture of day services provided by the department and crossroads care from Monday to Friday. 

She has thanked the learning disabilities team for their support.

The DHSC will not comment on individual cases, but says reviews of pre-Covid care are being undertaken to ensure future support provides the best outcome for each individual. 

It adds that families are an important part of this process.

Mrs Torin feels carers need more input into review decisions, and says with the options offered to her, she feels there's no option but to agree to putting her son in a care home: