Councillors could be set to say a fond farewell to a once unique service that has been helping vulnerable people to live independently for almost 40 years.
Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Careline Service was launched in 1987 to support people in their own home through assistive technology, including fall bracelets, watches and pendants.
It also provides a 24/7 service to its paying customers, as well as some additional offers such as a lifting service while Careline also supports TDC’s out-of-hours capabilities and CCTV control centre.
But following a year-long ‘deep dive’ review, the council’s Cabinet is set to discuss the future of the scheme at a meeting on Friday, 26 July.
Gina Placey, TDC Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, said: “When Careline was established it provided a unique service to Tendring and has been highly regarded by both customers and their family members – it has been a real success story.
“But over the past 40 years, the telecare landscape has changed significantly, with several alternative providers in a competitive market – one that the council is not necessarily best placed to be in, and therefore it is right that we consider if we should still be plugging that gap with taxpayer funds.
“Service users are now likely to be able to access more cost-effective provision in the market, while Essex County Council provides a free of charge service if a resident is referred to them through a statutory provider such as adult social care or a health care provider.
“A final decision on ceasing any services will not be made until later this year, following a public consultation, but I want to stress that if we do go down this route then no customers will be left behind.
“If the council decides to withdraw Careline services, a sum of £300,000 would be set aside to help transfer customers to whichever alternative provider they may select – and they will be kept informed and supported throughout. Ceasing any services will not be a knee-jerk reaction, but follows a comprehensive review.
“The current position requires a significant subsidy paid by the taxpayers - £344,958 in 2023/4 - and service charges would still need to be increased if Careline was to continue in some form; but this is not just about finances.
“It is about what is best for customers – there are many other providers out there, including some lower cost options.”
A series of options for the future of the service will be discussed by Cabinet next week, following which the preferred option will be made subject to a consultation, due to begin in August.
The recommended option is for the council to leave the telecare market and cease the lifting/response provision of Careline, with the service solely providing the council’s CCTV and out-of-hours provision, which supports council services such as Emergency Planning, Environmental Health, Housing and any other emergency situations for residents.
Councillor Placey added: “I would also like to praise the good work of our dedicated Careline staff – the review and proposals are not a reflection on them, but on the changing landscape of this type of service.”
The Cabinet report confirms that TDC is committed to taking every action to prevent compulsory redundancies, which would only be a last resort.
If councillors decide to withdraw the provision of the Careline service, it is anticipated that services would end by 31 March next year, along with the termination of any associated third-party contracts.
