Cabinet approves new model to strengthen reablement support

A new model to strengthen reablement support for residents was considered and approved by Walsall Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday 24 June.

Reablement provides short-term, intensive support to help people regain their independence following illness, disability, injury or a stay in hospital, while reducing the need for long-term care.
 
Councillor Peter Harrison, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care at Walsall Council, said, “Reablement is an important part of the local health and care system, helping people rebuild confidence and independence in their own homes.
 
“This new model will bring community and intermediate care reablement services together under a single framework, funded through Adult Social Care and the Better Care Fund.

"It will help ensure residents receive the right support at the right time, while delivering a more consistent and coordinated service across the borough.
 
“By commissioning external providers through this approach, we can support high-quality care, improve coordination between health and social care partners, and reduce reliance on long-term care services.”
 
The new model proposes that up to four specialist providers are commissioned through a competitive procurement process, creating a more coordinated and resilient service across the borough.

Contracts will run for an initial term of five years, with potential extensions of up to 10 years. New contracts are expected to begin from January 2027. 
 
Councillor Matt Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council, said, “This is an important step in strengthening our partnership with healthcare colleagues and providers across Walsall.

"By bringing services together, we can create a more seamless experience for residents, support better outcomes and make best use of public resources.”
 
For more information about the Reablement Service at Walsall Council, you can visit go.walsall.gov.uk.