Agenda item - Better Care Fund Quarter 3 Update

64.1 This item was introduced and presented by Chas Walker (Programme Director, Integrated Service Transformation).

64.2 Chas Walker outlined the contents of the report and the performance of the Better Care Fund up to Quarter 3. Up to Quarter 3, all the national conditions for the Better Care Fund continue to be met with performances and potential forthcoming changes across other metrics also outlined.

64.3 Councillor De Oliveira asked a question on if the overall message is a net positive. Chas Walker responded to this, stating it is an improving position.

64.4 Stephen Lightfoot (Chair of NHS Sussex) made a statement on being more ambitious, particularly with respect to discharge performance, and encouraged the board to interrogate the 2025-26 plan when it arrives.

64.5 Tanya Brown-Griffith (Director for Joint Commissioning and Integrated Community Teams at NHS Sussex) made a statement on falls and intervention around this, particularly around the age 65+ and male demographics.

64.6 Tom Lambert (Chief Executive of the Carers Centre) asked a question on what assurances can be provided that the voluntary sector will be part of the work that goes into the development of the Better Care Fund. Chas Walker responded to and answered this question, outlining the role within the steering group moving forward.

64.7 Adam Fazakerly (Chief Executive of the Carers Centre) asked a question on the East-Brighton food co-op and whether hospital discharges could be linked up directly with them. An action was taken on this point for Chas Walker and Adam Fazakerly to discuss this further outside of the meeting. Chas Walker responded to this question, stating that this has been highlighted and processes around this do exist.

64.8 Councillor Grimshaw gave a statement around the impact of early hospital discharges for residents. Stephen Lightfoot responded to this point and agreed that safe discharges are needed and important.

64.9 RESOLVED - that the Board agree to note the report.