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PRESS RELEASE
From
Social Services North West
28 July 2000
NORTH WEST CARE CHIEFS WELCOME NEW-STYLE PARTNERSHIP WITH NHS
Senior social services councillors across the North West have welcomed many of the radical reforms of the NHS
which the Government has set out in its new NHS Plan. They endorse the commitment of the Government to the closest
possible working between health and social services, and a new "health watchdog" role for local councils.
They warn, however, that the ties between social services and the rest of local government should not be weakened.
Councillor Cliff Morris (Bolton), Chair of Social Services North West, said, "This raft of reforms, coupled
with the major injection of additional resources, promises a much better deal for NHS patients. The empowerment
of front line staff can only mean improved care for those in need, and the scrutiny powers given to democratically
elected local councils are also welcome and appropriate. We endorse the emphasis on partnership working between
health and social care, and as local authorities we will play our full part in delivering top-quality services"
Councillor Morris warned however that Government should not underestimate the strengths which local government-based
social services bring to their partnerships with the NHS. "The Government themselves have stressed the key
role of housing in delivering comprehensive packages of care to frail older people. We in local government can
make sure those links work effectively".
Social Services North West speaks for the local authorities in the North West of England which have responsibility
for personal social services for older people, disabled people and children, and works to promote high quality
services in the North West.
Social Services North West welcomes the fact that the Government does not intend to reduce the statutory powers
of local social services authorities. "We believe the Government has been right to choose the carrot and not
the stick to ensure that services work together effectively," said Councillor Morris. "We shall do all
we can to make partnership working a reality. The next few years should see a real meeting of minds between the
NHS and local government in delivering better services to those in need."
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