Older People's Specialist Support Service Market Engagement

The Council is to offer this service to people self-referred, referred from social workers or health professionals, aged 65 and over, who present or may be identified as at risk from isolation, deterioration or in crisis. The service supports those requiring specialist information, advice or support to halt or slow down any deterioration or avert crisis. The service is intended to provide timely intervention and support to older people to maintain social interaction, participate in their local community and prevent decline. The scope of the service is currently under review and may offer: o Provision of a one-to-one befriending service to link people together via face-to-face contact within the home or via telephone and/or online video contact, providing company and support to those identified as at risk and requiring specialist support. o Support will need to be provided to upskill and empower people with the necessary digital skills to independently seek/sustain contact with organisations/individuals. o Access to clubs and activities across the Solihull borough with the intention to help people build relationships, reduce loneliness and maximise older people's independence. Solihull Council wants to follow on from previous market engagement and is seeking further views to support the shaping of the service, before commencing the formal processes to retender this service.