Islanders are being urged to have their say on the future of a key support service that helps adults across the Isle of Wight live independently, stay healthy and access help before problems become more serious.
The Isle of Wight Council, working alongside NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board (ICB), has launched a public consultation to help shape the future of the Island’s Living Well and Early Help Service.
The service provides early intervention and support to residents aged 18 and over, helping them maintain their independence, improve their wellbeing and access assistance when they need it.
With the current contract coming to an end, the council and its NHS partners want to hear from as many people as possible about what the service should look like in the future.
Residents, carers, community groups, voluntary organisations and health and social care professionals are all being encouraged to take part.
The consultation is open to everyone, including those who have never used the service but may need support in the future.
An online survey gives Islanders the chance to highlight what works well, identify gaps in existing support and suggest improvements.
The feedback will help inform the design of the future service, ensuring it continues to meet the changing needs of local communities.
Laura Gaudion, Director of Adult Social Care and Public Health, has said:
“We want to hear from as many local people as possible. Whether you have sought support from the current Living Well and Early Help service or not your views matter.
“By having your say through completing the survey and taking part in the drop-in sessions, you can play a direct part in shaping how we support local people and our communities in the years ahead. This will help us to ensure that people are able to get the right support, in the right place at the right time.
“This is a real opportunity for people to influence the future of support on the Isle of Wight.”
Councillor James Whelan, Chair of the Adult Social Care, Public Health and Housing Needs Committee, has said:
“Good public services are built around the people who use them.
“That’s why it is so important that Islanders help shape the future of the Living Well and Early Help Service.”
As well as the online survey, 4 drop-in sessions are being held across the Isle of Wight, giving residents the opportunity to speak directly with representatives, ask questions and share their experiences.
The sessions will take place at:
- Parklands Dementia Resource Centre, Cowes – Wednesday (4th November), 14:30-16:30.
- West Wight Sports Centre Café, Freshwater – Monday (9th November), 13:00-15:00.
- Ryde Library – Tuesday (10th November), 10:00-12:00.
- Quay Arts Centre Café, Newport – Wednesday (11th November), 11:00-12:00.
The consultation is now open, with residents having until 30th November to submit their views.
The survey can be accessed through the Living Well and Early Help Service consultation page on the Isle of Wight Council’s website.
