Prevention in Bexley

Lead service provider/commissioner

Name:

London Borough of Bexley

Type of knowledge

Type of knowledge:

Project evaluation

Type of evaluation:

Outcome evaluation; Survey

Prevention service description

With their Local Colleges First programme, younger people with complex learning disabilities, who previously were moving to expensive out-of-borough adult placements, have been supported to stay in Bexley and pursue tailored educational opportunities that enable their independence and ability to enter employment where appropriate. A partnership between the council, Bexley CCG, education and local employers enables young people to access local services which were previously not open to them, up to their 25th birthday. Those needing more support can be provided with specifically trained personal assistants to support them as they move between home and college, learning centre or supported employment programme, whichever option works for the individual. This support can involve vital travel training. With its better transition planning processes and links to local employers, volunteering and employment opportunities have opened up, ensuring these young people can pursue their aspirations while remaining connected to their families and friends. The council are now also looking at creating more local supported living options to ensure this independence can continue past the 25th birthday.

Mental health day services in Bexley have been recommissioned and redesigned to follow a recovery model, which enable people with mental health problems to regain independence and have a meaningful life in the community. A range of different services are lead by an integrated community mental health team, run by NHS Oxleas Foundation Trust, who work with providers like Mind. Funded by the council and the CCG, Mind provides different preventative services such as a Recovery college, social prescribing, peer mentoring for people at risk of Type 2 diabetes and carer support services. A user-lead Art Club in Bexley set up for people with mental health problems has become a separate social enterprise.

Intervention/service type:

Intermediate care and reablement; Support at home; Telecare and telehealth; Befriending, mentoring and peer support; Information and advice; Community services; Social prescribing

Target client group(s):

Older people; Adults with learning disabilities; Adults with mental health problems; Carers