The future shape of adult social care across Conservative-led East Sussex is being improved based on feedback received. Comments and suggestions are forming part of the county's brand new social care strategy "What Matters To You".
The title reflects the approach taken to developing the strategy: asking people who need care and support, their carers and families, what was important to them to live well. Around 700 local people responded to surveys or came along to focus groups and interviews to share their opinions and help develop the strategy.
Read about the six priorities and how they'll be taken forward.
There is also a new online self-assessment form for people diagnosed with hearing and sight loss, to help connect them to support if you need it.
Conservative councillor Carl Maynard, Lead Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: "East Sussex County Council are committed to listening to our residents and service users to fully understand what they need and want. It is important to shape the services that both we and our partners provide, so that residents get the access to the support they require.
"Despite funding pressures, the Conservative-led authority is committed to improving services, where possible, and in positive engagement with residents. Acting on their feedback is key to providing resilient high-quality services that residents expect and deserve."
FULL OF LIFE
As we move into autumn, the Full of Life Festival gets underway this month to celebrate older people, with a huge programme of events, activities and groups to choose from. From Tai Chi to film screenings, and singing to board games, there's something for everyone.
There are more older people living in East Sussex than ever before, and keeping physically, emotionally and socially active is a great way to stay happy, healthy and connected.
If you're looking for things to do during September and October then check out the Full of Life Festival, which has something for everyone in its two month programme of activities, events, social gatherings and more. The festival runs every year to celebrate Older People's Day (1 October), and is organised by the East Sussex Seniors Association and County Council.
Get the programme, and learn how to join your local seniors association.
HEALTHWATCH RYE
People in Rye will also have a particular opportunity to get involved this month, as the Healthwatch East Sussex Listening Tour comes to Rye and surrounding villages to listen to local people's experiences of health and care services.
Do you find yourself turning the TV up louder than other people, or have you been struggling to hear on the phone? Or perhaps you’ve noticed some changes to your sight recently? These could be some signs of hearing and sight loss, and you’re not alone. In East Sussex we have a growing population of people who have hearing or sight loss, and both are common.
As more and more people experience hearing loss, sight loss, or both, it’s important you know where to turn to for support if you need it. If you are having problems with your vision or hearing, contact your GP practice. If you’ve been diagnosed by a GP with a sensory impairment and need help and support in your daily life because of it, you can fill in a new online self assessment form to help connect you to support.
