A NEW service aiming to have a package to help vulnerable people lead an independent life as possible within 24 hours is trailing in Stevenage.
'Hertfordshire Enablement’ aims to help people referred to adult social care services for ongoing support.
Within 24 hours of being referred, the aim is to have a programme in place for people which will help them stay independent by learning and/or re-learning the skills required for daily living.
The service, which has created 200 jobs, will be free at the point of delivery for up to six weeks, after which it is expected that many people will have reduced or no care needs in the future.
Richard Smith, executive member for adult care and health, said: "We already have a very good enablement service, but it is limited in scope. This new model will mean that the vast majority of people referred to ACS will benefit from an enablement service, which effectively means helping people to live as independently as possible, preferably in their own home.
This could be achieved through home care, home adaptations, Telecare or simply information and advice about the range of support services available."
It is hoped that the service, also being tested in North Herts, will be rolled out across the county by the end of April 2011.
