Devolution & Care Homes - an update from County Hall

A decision on the future shape of councils in Norwich is unlikely to be made until the beginning of next year. The Labour Government wants to see the current two-tier system of local government – county and districts, replaced by a unitary structure where most local services are provided by the same council. Under the proposed changes, voters in Norfolk and Suffolk are also likely to be choosing their first directly elected mayor who will have powers over things like planning, transport. economic development and skills. This election should take place next May.

However, Norfolk’s councils can’t seem to agree about the way forward. Norfolk Lib Dem leader Brian Watkins has criticised the County Council’s preference for a single unitary option covering the whole of Norfolk. Brian likened their approach to ‘Custer’s last stand’ and said that their preferred model was unlikely to deliver promised savings targets, and would bring about an erosion of local democracy and accountability. Six of the seven district councils – including Norwich, believe that a three unitary option for Norfolk would best represent voter interests and ensure that cherished local services are properly protected.  

Final business cases need to be submitted to the Government by the end of September.

Norfolk County Council will soon be looking to other providers to run the 17 care homes currently managed by Norse Care, a private company that it currently owns. The Norse contract for housing with care services, which began back in 2011, will come to an end in March next year. The Conservative-led administration has been heavily criticised by opposition councillors for failing to provide the level of investment necessary to ensure that the care accommodation remains up to date and fit for purpose. 

Brian Watkins, leader of the Liberal Democrats at County Hall, said that the issue had been handled poorly. "There are lots of legitimate concerns not just about the lack of modernization of the council’s stock over a number of years, but the level and quality of care too. Most importantly, hundreds of vulnerable residents face real anguish and uncertainty about their futures. This is totally unacceptable and must be addressed without delay.’’

The County Lib Dem group highlighted the issue of youth unemployment at a recent Council meeting. Whilst Norfolk’s general unemployment rate remains low, it has risen significantly amongst the 16-24 year age group. The Lib Dems are concerned that there are too many obstacles which prevent young people from learning valuable life and career skills. Many of them are keen to contribute to their communities and support the local economy, but access to employment opportunities is often an impediment.

Although the County Council has a number of beneficial work initiatives in place, these need to be refined and improved. Brian Watkins urged the Council to review its internal programmes for apprentices and work experience, as well as building on its engagement work with local businesses, colleges and training providers. It was agreed that the Lib Dem proposal should be considered in more detail at a future select committee meeting.