A new public consultation on Home Care services will help to inform the development of a new statutory scheme and system of regulation for home care services in Ireland.
Fine Gael TD Martin Heydon is encouraging Kildare residents to contribute to the consultation and have their say on the future of Home Care. In the last few years I have noticed a significant increase in the number of families seeking Home Care options for their loved ones. I want to ensure the services available are expanded and improved upon.
“We must ensure that everyone has the chance to stay in their homes and in their own communities for as long as possible. While nursing home care is essential for some people, it’s not right that the Fair Deal scheme is currently the only statutory scheme in place to care for our elderly people.
“The Government’s plan is to put Home Care on a statutory footing, and to make it affordable and sustainable. Regulation of the sector will also be key to the new plan. Families availing of Home Care must be assured that the services on offer are of the highest standard.
“Widespread consultation is to take place with stakeholders on the topic of Home Care and I am really pleased that the public will also get to have a say on the matter. With any new scheme it’s important that we consult with those who use the service. I know many families here in Kildare that depend on Home Care and it’s only right that they have a say.
“The consultation paper can be found online at http://health.gov.ie/consultations or a hard copy can be obtained by calling 01-6354402. The closing date for submissions is 31 August 2017.
“I encourage everyone with an interest in Home Care either for themselves, or for a relative, to get involved in this consultation. You can have your say and help shape the future of Home Care to ensure it meets the needs of your family.”
The consultation, launched by the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, TD, and Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Jim Daly, TD, is particularly aimed at people who use Home Care services, their families and the general public. However, everyone with an interest, including: health and social care providers; health and social care workers; advocacy groups; those providing complementary services (such as meals-on-wheels and social activities); and representative organisations are welcome to participate.