Uncertain future for Somerset learning disability services

Residential, supported living, domiciliary and day services are provided by Somerset County Council and joint funded by the council and NHS Somerset.

A report to the NHS Somerset board said the PCT and the council were reconsidering the options in light of an anticipated increase in the use of personal budgets “as remaining as part of the county council precludes providing services funded by direct payments”.

The report said Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group which supported the option of outsourcing the entire service through a whole service open market tender.

However, the PCT board agreed to develop a full business case that considers services remaining in the council whilst “continuing to redesign, deliver efficiencies and explore options for service delivery that may include the potential for a management buy-out” as well as outsourcing the service.