Despite a recent tendering exercise, the Department of Health and Social Care has been unable to identify an external provider of day services for older people that can operate the service within the resources available. As a result, the Department will operate the service directly through its Adult Social Care Directorate, with effect from Monday 3 October 2016.
Minister for Health and Social Care, Howard Quayle MHK, said:
'Day services offer an important avenue of support for many older people, helping them to remain independent for as long as possible, as well as providing an opportunity to interact and engage in activities together, make new friends and learn new skills.
'It is regrettable that the Department has not been able to commission an external provider that can run the services within the allocated budget. Whilst not ideal, as with any externally commissioned service, the Department remains the provider of last resort, and in this instance, there is little option for Government but to provide the services direct to remain within the current cost envelope.'
Day services for older people have been commissioned by the Department for a number of years, with a third party paid to run the service on its behalf. The current provider, Age Concern Isle of Man, chose not to bid for the day services contract.
The Department is working closely with Age Concern Isle of Man, to ensure that, where possible, services continue in their current form with minimal changes for users. Staff and service users have been told of the change and the priority for the Department is to ensure that there is a smooth transition and stability. There will be opportunities for staff to transfer from the current provider in order to remain with the service and ensure continuity of provision for the people the service supports.
