Respite Policy Consultation

Overview

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Western Isles Integration Joint Board (IJB) are currently reviewing the respite policy across the Western Isles.

We are considering different options about how respite is utilised across the islands and whether it should be allocated differently in the future and we want to hear from members of the public about how best to proceed.

Why We Are Consulting

The Comhairle and IJB have a limited amount of resources for the purposes of respite care. We want to make sure that there is an equitable use of these resources across our services. To this end, we want your views on how we should spread these out fairly and ensure that those who really need the services the most receive their fair share.

What Happens Next

All comments and feedback on the contents of the draft Respite Policy are welcomed. If you would like to comment on this draft policy you can do so in a number of ways as detailed below:

Comments can be submitted in writing or by email to the address below:

Graeme Miller
Children's Services Manager
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar
Sandwick Road
Stornoway
HS1 2BW

g.miller@cne-siar.gov.uk

We would be grateful if you could ensure your response is received by Friday 14^th February 2020. 

In addition, there will be drop-in public consultation events, as follows: 

• Tuesday 14^th January, Castlebay Council Office from 2-5pm
• Wednesday 15^th January, Balivanich Council Office from 12-3pm
• Friday 17^th January, Committee Room 3, Comhairle Offices, Sandwick Road, Stornoway 1-4pm
• Wednesday 29^th January, Castlebay Council Office from 3-6pm
• Wednesday 5^th February, Committee Room 3, Comhairle Offices, Sandwick Road, Stornoway 5-7pm

Responses will be collated and submitted to the Education Committee and the IJB for discussion and consideration before implementation of the policy.

Consultation Update

In response to a number of requests for further meetings, the consultation, as noted above has been extended to 14/2/20.

As part of the process to date, other local authorities have been asked for their maximum respite levels in order that benchmarking could take place. A number of responses have been received and these range from a maximum of 8 weeks down to a maximum of 4 weeks. In order to assist the consultation, an example of the levels of respite which would be provided if a maximum of 6 weeks was used (ie, an average from the benchmarking) has been attached as Appx. 2 below.

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