Doncaster Metripolitan Council
Councillors:
56
Wards:
22
Committees:
25
Meetings (2025):
88
Meetings (2024):
113
Meeting
Health and Adults Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Panel - Doncaster
Meeting Times
Scheduled Time
Start:
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
2:00 PM
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
2:00 PM
End:
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
6:00 PM
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
6:00 PM
Actual Time
Started:
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
12:00 AM
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
12:00 AM
Finished:
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
12:00 AM
Thursday, 3rd October 2024
12:00 AM
Meeting Status
Status:
Confirmed
Confirmed
Date:
03 Oct 2024
03 Oct 2024
Location:
Council Chamber, Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster DN1 3BU
Council Chamber, Civic Office, Waterdale, Doncaster DN1 3BU
Meeting Attendees
Guest
UNISON
Jim Board
UNISON
Expected
Chair
Councillor Glynis Smith
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Laura Bluff
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Bev Chapman
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Linda Curran
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Yetunde Elebuibon
Present, as expected
Committee Member
Councillor Sean Gibbons
Expected
Committee Member
Councillor Sue Knowles
Apologies
Agenda
0
A. Items where the Public and Press may not be excluded
1
Apologies for Absence
Minutes
Apologies for absence were received from Councillor Sue Knowles.
2
To consider the extent, if any, to which the public and press are to be excluded from the meeting.
3
Declarations of Interest, if any
Minutes
There were no declarations of interest made.
4
Minutes of the Health and Adult Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Panel held on 15th July 2024
Attachments:
Minutes
RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting held on 15th July 2024, be approved as a correct record, and signed by the Chair.
5
Public Statements
[A period not exceeding 20 minutes for
Statements from up to 5 members of the public on
matters within the Panel’s remit, proposing action(s)
which may be considered or contribute towards the
future development of the Panel’s work programme].
Statements from up to 5 members of the public on
matters within the Panel’s remit, proposing action(s)
which may be considered or contribute towards the
future development of the Panel’s work programme].
Minutes
There were no public statements made.
6
Doncaster Substance Misuse Treatment and Recovery System Overview 2024
Attachments:
- Document H&ASC O&S Substance Misuse App RL 031024 25 Sep 2024
Minutes
This report provided a current overview of the key features of Doncaster’s Substance Misuse Treatment and Recovery System. It focused on the delivery of the adult service for substance misuse provided by Aspire, provision through Zone 5-19 for children and young people and role of the Voluntary and Community sector through Project 6 and Better Together.
Site Visit to Project 6/Sober Social
The Chair and Members thanked officers and staff from the Project 6/Sober Social for allowing them to visit during the morning to view the facilities and talk to individuals with lived experience. The Chair spoke about what Panel Members learnt which included the following.
o That detox was considered very important before treatment, but structure and routine were also vital moving forward.
o Members heard about background stories and the impact of addiction with work, family, friends, and relationships.
o Spoke about treatment and next steps following treatment leading to possible training opportunities such as becoming a volunteer and mentor with Project 6.
o That the Project 6 building was considered as a safe environment that helped support recovery.
o Individuals commented that Project 6 had provided them with a “community” type environment and connections that were considered very important in terms of the support provided.
o In terms of engagement and communication, the Chair referenced events in the community informing people about what they do.
The Director of Public Health provided an overview of the report and there was a brief discussion on the following areas.
Open Access Service/Point 14 – Clarification was sought regarding the comprehensive Full Physical Health with prescribing interventions arranged for the same day. It was explained that there was a need to try and help people access the same systems and support as would be used by everyone else. It was outlined that when the person tests positive, referrals would be made to other existing specialist services such as the Hepatitis C to the Hepatitis C Trust and HIV to the Sexual Health Service. It was clarified that the substance misuse service was unable to provide those treatments in-house and therefore linked to other services whilst supporting those individuals. The Director of Public Health explained that when the person presents to the service, they might have other physical and/or mental health needs and the process would be made up of an overall assessment that would allow the service to identify those needs.
Planned Assessments – Clarification was sought on planned assessments being provided during September and October when by the end of October, the number of planned assessments would have increased from 28 to 36 per week. It was reported that once the Open Access Team (OAT) team was fully established, they would be able to complete 38 planned assessments per week, and that the biggest impact would be 19 walk-in (immediate) assessments each week which had not been previously offered.
It was clarified that 38 planned assessments per week was part of a national strategy and that there was a fundamental shift to increase capacity and quality through recruiting more staff. This meant that with increased resources the service would be able to provide a more person centred high responsive quality care. It was noted that as part of the national direction, although the 38 planned assessments was not a performance indicator, it did contribute to other ones. It was continued that it was about having more staff and more people in the treatment system and enabling people to access the service quicker and with less steps involved. There was an explanation of how the figure of 38 planned assessments completed had been agreed. In relation to the new walk-in offer, it was commented that it was about understanding this cohort of people which were likely to have multiple and complex needs and therefore making and keeping an appointment was often a challenge. It was viewed that through offering walk-in appointments with immediate assessments, something tangible could be provided and therefore the individual was more likely to return.
Criminal Justice System/Point 20 – Clarity was sought around the impact of the recent increase in early prison releases. It was noted that for Doncaster this represented only a small number. Members heard that the Probation Service brought partners together that included Public Health as commissioners and Aspire, to consider the various realm of preparations required to prepare prisoners who were released early. Reference was made to the establishment of the departure lounge and how that would respond to, and support prisoners being released. It was explained that assurance had been sought around harm reduction as well as what other things needed to be understood. Although preparations had been considered positive, it had been recognised that it might be too early to understand the full impact. Aspire spoke about their involvement linking in probation with Criminal Justice Teams to the departure lounge.
Outreach Team – Clarification was sought around the figure of 105 and what this meant as a percentage of homeless people in Doncaster. It was also asked whether contact had been made with this group. The Panel was informed that work was undertaken not only with homeless people but also with sex workers and those living in hostels as part of a wider remit. It was noted that there was an Aspire worker embedded within the Complex Lives Team. It was explained that although the figure of 105 clients was from a previous figure, this was now currently at 63 with 10 of those clients being homeless (forming around 15% of the current cohort). It was outlined that contact was made through the team going out on the streets, visiting hostels, making enquiries about certain individuals, and carrying out drop-ins at Princess House. Members heard how the team was out early mornings and late evenings, in attempts to engage with clients that did not wish to come into the buildings. An example was provided of a 5am walk currently being trialled to engage with sex workers in town. It was continued that there were also links made with partner agencies and information was being shared.
Older Person Alcohol Service/Point 34 – Concern was raised regarding links with Housing Associations, particularly with those that were smaller providers. It was explained that the Older Persons Referral Service at Project 6 had links with certain housing organisations such as Riverside, South Yorkshire Housing, Garman House, Ashcroft House, and St Leger Homes Doncaster who send referrals through. It was stated that the Older Persons Alcohol Service previously consisted of one person with an additional worker having joined recently. It was reported that this increased the capacity of the team who could now undertake more contact and undertake work with other organisations, introducing the service more widely and strengthening connections.
Services for Young People/Zone 5-19/Point 24 – Members raised concerns around the increased use of vapes with children and young people. It was felt that vapes were becoming even more available and were being marketed specifically to this age group. It was also commented that some illegal vapes contained illicit substances. Members were informed that there was an anticipation that national legislation would be put in place to tighten restrictions around vapes such as availability and packaging. References were made to operations undertaken by Trading Standards on underage sales and the use of illicit substances. It was commented how vapes and packaging were being made more attractive which was very challenging to get around.
It was explained that with Zone 5 to 19, a support package was in place from the point when the young person walked through the door. It was outlined that this could include a holistic health assessment that consisted of general advice, intervention, and support. It was continued that in respect of education sessions within schools and the offer to colleges, efforts were taken to make sure that they were equipped with brief intervention information. Other steps included education and advice to parents through a single point of contact and through parent’s evenings in schools. It was noted that the service had not received any referrals of cases concerning illicit substances. It was explained that if a referral was made or concern was raised by a school, the service would then support schools to have those conversations, or they would go in and undertake interventions with the young people involved. It was clarified that work undertaken included information in respect to the law and the risks of buying vapes (particularly online). It was stated that intelligence around how a young person was able to access vapes would be passed on. The Tobacco Control Alliance also considered the impact of vapes and providing resources to schools as well as to wider settings to help tackle this issue. Reference was later made to vapes having a potential role in supporting individuals in quitting smoking and as part of harm reduction.
Treatment Pathway – In terms of referral routes for young people, it was stressed that the ethos was that no door was the wrong door. Main routes used for referrals included calling, texting, access via an online e-clinic, social media platforms, walk-in or pre-arranged appointments through a base located at the Flying Scotsman. It was explained that all secondary schools have drop-ins held every 2 weeks that young people can attend and there was one-to-one support with specialist interventions in a range of settings such as primary schools and alternate education settings and through other community venues. It was noted that parent carers and professionals could refer through a single point of contact, Outreach Workers, and Peer Support workers. Concern was expressed that some young people would look to hide substance misuse and therefore a low-profile approach might be required. It was responded that it was about getting the service out there and known about so individuals know how to access it. Members heard about some of the activities undertaken by the service, and it was explained that the services covered many different areas as well as substance misuse.
Regarding work undertaken prior to children starting Secondary School, Members were informed about the School Health Profile which was discussed annually with the local School Nurse who would agree the school’s priorities. Therefore, if the school chose this area as a focus or had areas of concerns then the service would go in and deliver packages of care, but it would not form a universal offer to Year 6 pupils.
Action: To circulate work undertaken by the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) around vapes and young people.
National Drugs Strategy - Reference was made to 3 focus areas of the National Drugs Strategy and how the Combating Drugs Partnership were responding to each of those areas (one of those areas being around young people and therefore impacting future generations). Alongside Zone 5-19, there had been a focus around families where a parent might have a substance misuse issue, and therefore looked at how families were supported and that’s where investment had been made. It was noted that the next Combating Drugs Partnership meeting would be taking place the following week with a children, young people and family focus and the Director of Public Health offered to take some of those considerations raised by the Panel today.
EPIC – Members heard that the Council had strong working relationships with Team Epic, and it was explained how they identified needs across the city and target that work accordingly rather than from a fixed location. It was noted that posters and QR codes were used and that the EPIC team undertake joint work with the Zone 5 to 19 service based in the Frenchgate Centre during school holidays and other areas where young people congregate to engage with young people. It was commented that the Zone 5 to 19 service had created their own interactive games to encourage people to come and talk. It was shared that the service also took into consideration out of school and social hours as part of their engagement plan.
Activities and Events - It was explained that there were mutual aid groups that use the Sober Social Project 6 building during the evening and at weekends with Project 6 being involved in different community activities. Examples were shared such as the Pride event, a quarterly evening Sober Social event on a Friday night, 80s disco and Murder Mystery night all co-produced with the community. It was explained that the approach was to find out what people wanted to do and arrange that where possible.
Use of Technology - Regarding the use of modern technology and social media, it was explained that there was a Facebook page accessed by many who use the service. Members heard that messages could be sent any time of the day and a response would always be provided as soon as it could be. It was recognised that there was a greater demand for extra curriculum activities.
Support During Yearly Celebrations - Concern was raised around events and celebrations that took place during the year and it was asked what was in place during such periods. It was recognised that it was important to also have a social model of support and care to help keep people on track and remain part of that community. Working communities through Well Doncaster and others that included grants for small organisations helped ensure that services were better connected across Community Voluntary Faith sector organisations to offer those grants and opportunities.
Members were informed that a great deal of preparatory work was undertaken with individuals using the service when approaching key times of year, such as Christmas, when people were more likely to struggle. It was commented that although the building was closed on Christmas day and Bank Holidays, the service continued to run in-between those days. Reference was made to the vibrant community that had been built, and it was believed that connections were essential to aid recovery and that this was about what took place outside of the building as well.
In reference to work undertaken within schools, it was explained that all secondary schools have a school nurse drop in, videos and talk sessions to classes and whole year sessions. It was explained that people can choose to engage with the service digitally, and parents through events such as parents evening, there was also a parent’s app available through which questions can be asked.
Employment – There was a brief conversation around what was available to support individuals back into employment and to remain employed. Members were informed that the Council commissioned the Changing Lives service to provide Individual Placements Support model to provide help into employment. It was explained that this was a national initiative looking to improve the pathways between commission treatment services and work. It was explained that Changing Lives was co-located with Aspire so that everyone in structed treatments could access the Individual Placement Support (IPS) to receive a tailored package to support them back into work (which includes contacting local employers and finding opportunities).
It was explained that IPS have a presence at New Beginnings (inpatients detox unit) and speak to clients undertaking detox as well as going to the Structured Day Programme (a 16-week programme following detox). It was stated that there was an accredited peer mentor training programme led by Aspire which provided a qualification. The IPS also undertakes a drop-in which provides an opportunity for the individual to have a chat with the IPS worker and talk through available placement or job opportunities. It was noted that key workers would mention the initiative when speaking to individuals and that there were also posters and information in all their buildings.
In reference to volunteers, it was explained that the training was accredited to a national qualification which was transferable and recognised by employers.
Next Steps – It was hoped that the fixed term additional funding (set for next 3 years) finishing this year, continues with a fair allocation of funding to substance misuse services. It was viewed that positive steps had been taken around the stigma element of substance misuse and Members were encouraged to use their experience from what had been learnt from the site visit and meeting, to continue this work and participate in what was taking place. Reference was made to a multi-year settlement which would enable plans to go forward beyond an annual basis. Stigma and stereotyping were mentioned and the need for positive strong partnership working to help overcome this.
Ongoing Support - In terms of supporting individuals who had relapsed on more than one occasion, it was stressed that the recovery journey would simply start over again with the right support put in place.
The Chair provided thanks for the site visit during the morning when Members heard about people’s experience. Members of the Panel were encouraged to attend and be part of the Recovery Games.
Action: To circulate Project 6 video when made available.
RESOLVED: That the Health and Social Care Scrutiny Panel note the improved access, quality and capacity of the Doncaster Substance Misuse Treatment and Recovery System in 2024.
Site Visit to Project 6/Sober Social
The Chair and Members thanked officers and staff from the Project 6/Sober Social for allowing them to visit during the morning to view the facilities and talk to individuals with lived experience. The Chair spoke about what Panel Members learnt which included the following.
o That detox was considered very important before treatment, but structure and routine were also vital moving forward.
o Members heard about background stories and the impact of addiction with work, family, friends, and relationships.
o Spoke about treatment and next steps following treatment leading to possible training opportunities such as becoming a volunteer and mentor with Project 6.
o That the Project 6 building was considered as a safe environment that helped support recovery.
o Individuals commented that Project 6 had provided them with a “community” type environment and connections that were considered very important in terms of the support provided.
o In terms of engagement and communication, the Chair referenced events in the community informing people about what they do.
The Director of Public Health provided an overview of the report and there was a brief discussion on the following areas.
Open Access Service/Point 14 – Clarification was sought regarding the comprehensive Full Physical Health with prescribing interventions arranged for the same day. It was explained that there was a need to try and help people access the same systems and support as would be used by everyone else. It was outlined that when the person tests positive, referrals would be made to other existing specialist services such as the Hepatitis C to the Hepatitis C Trust and HIV to the Sexual Health Service. It was clarified that the substance misuse service was unable to provide those treatments in-house and therefore linked to other services whilst supporting those individuals. The Director of Public Health explained that when the person presents to the service, they might have other physical and/or mental health needs and the process would be made up of an overall assessment that would allow the service to identify those needs.
Planned Assessments – Clarification was sought on planned assessments being provided during September and October when by the end of October, the number of planned assessments would have increased from 28 to 36 per week. It was reported that once the Open Access Team (OAT) team was fully established, they would be able to complete 38 planned assessments per week, and that the biggest impact would be 19 walk-in (immediate) assessments each week which had not been previously offered.
It was clarified that 38 planned assessments per week was part of a national strategy and that there was a fundamental shift to increase capacity and quality through recruiting more staff. This meant that with increased resources the service would be able to provide a more person centred high responsive quality care. It was noted that as part of the national direction, although the 38 planned assessments was not a performance indicator, it did contribute to other ones. It was continued that it was about having more staff and more people in the treatment system and enabling people to access the service quicker and with less steps involved. There was an explanation of how the figure of 38 planned assessments completed had been agreed. In relation to the new walk-in offer, it was commented that it was about understanding this cohort of people which were likely to have multiple and complex needs and therefore making and keeping an appointment was often a challenge. It was viewed that through offering walk-in appointments with immediate assessments, something tangible could be provided and therefore the individual was more likely to return.
Criminal Justice System/Point 20 – Clarity was sought around the impact of the recent increase in early prison releases. It was noted that for Doncaster this represented only a small number. Members heard that the Probation Service brought partners together that included Public Health as commissioners and Aspire, to consider the various realm of preparations required to prepare prisoners who were released early. Reference was made to the establishment of the departure lounge and how that would respond to, and support prisoners being released. It was explained that assurance had been sought around harm reduction as well as what other things needed to be understood. Although preparations had been considered positive, it had been recognised that it might be too early to understand the full impact. Aspire spoke about their involvement linking in probation with Criminal Justice Teams to the departure lounge.
Outreach Team – Clarification was sought around the figure of 105 and what this meant as a percentage of homeless people in Doncaster. It was also asked whether contact had been made with this group. The Panel was informed that work was undertaken not only with homeless people but also with sex workers and those living in hostels as part of a wider remit. It was noted that there was an Aspire worker embedded within the Complex Lives Team. It was explained that although the figure of 105 clients was from a previous figure, this was now currently at 63 with 10 of those clients being homeless (forming around 15% of the current cohort). It was outlined that contact was made through the team going out on the streets, visiting hostels, making enquiries about certain individuals, and carrying out drop-ins at Princess House. Members heard how the team was out early mornings and late evenings, in attempts to engage with clients that did not wish to come into the buildings. An example was provided of a 5am walk currently being trialled to engage with sex workers in town. It was continued that there were also links made with partner agencies and information was being shared.
Older Person Alcohol Service/Point 34 – Concern was raised regarding links with Housing Associations, particularly with those that were smaller providers. It was explained that the Older Persons Referral Service at Project 6 had links with certain housing organisations such as Riverside, South Yorkshire Housing, Garman House, Ashcroft House, and St Leger Homes Doncaster who send referrals through. It was stated that the Older Persons Alcohol Service previously consisted of one person with an additional worker having joined recently. It was reported that this increased the capacity of the team who could now undertake more contact and undertake work with other organisations, introducing the service more widely and strengthening connections.
Services for Young People/Zone 5-19/Point 24 – Members raised concerns around the increased use of vapes with children and young people. It was felt that vapes were becoming even more available and were being marketed specifically to this age group. It was also commented that some illegal vapes contained illicit substances. Members were informed that there was an anticipation that national legislation would be put in place to tighten restrictions around vapes such as availability and packaging. References were made to operations undertaken by Trading Standards on underage sales and the use of illicit substances. It was commented how vapes and packaging were being made more attractive which was very challenging to get around.
It was explained that with Zone 5 to 19, a support package was in place from the point when the young person walked through the door. It was outlined that this could include a holistic health assessment that consisted of general advice, intervention, and support. It was continued that in respect of education sessions within schools and the offer to colleges, efforts were taken to make sure that they were equipped with brief intervention information. Other steps included education and advice to parents through a single point of contact and through parent’s evenings in schools. It was noted that the service had not received any referrals of cases concerning illicit substances. It was explained that if a referral was made or concern was raised by a school, the service would then support schools to have those conversations, or they would go in and undertake interventions with the young people involved. It was clarified that work undertaken included information in respect to the law and the risks of buying vapes (particularly online). It was stated that intelligence around how a young person was able to access vapes would be passed on. The Tobacco Control Alliance also considered the impact of vapes and providing resources to schools as well as to wider settings to help tackle this issue. Reference was later made to vapes having a potential role in supporting individuals in quitting smoking and as part of harm reduction.
Treatment Pathway – In terms of referral routes for young people, it was stressed that the ethos was that no door was the wrong door. Main routes used for referrals included calling, texting, access via an online e-clinic, social media platforms, walk-in or pre-arranged appointments through a base located at the Flying Scotsman. It was explained that all secondary schools have drop-ins held every 2 weeks that young people can attend and there was one-to-one support with specialist interventions in a range of settings such as primary schools and alternate education settings and through other community venues. It was noted that parent carers and professionals could refer through a single point of contact, Outreach Workers, and Peer Support workers. Concern was expressed that some young people would look to hide substance misuse and therefore a low-profile approach might be required. It was responded that it was about getting the service out there and known about so individuals know how to access it. Members heard about some of the activities undertaken by the service, and it was explained that the services covered many different areas as well as substance misuse.
Regarding work undertaken prior to children starting Secondary School, Members were informed about the School Health Profile which was discussed annually with the local School Nurse who would agree the school’s priorities. Therefore, if the school chose this area as a focus or had areas of concerns then the service would go in and deliver packages of care, but it would not form a universal offer to Year 6 pupils.
Action: To circulate work undertaken by the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) around vapes and young people.
National Drugs Strategy - Reference was made to 3 focus areas of the National Drugs Strategy and how the Combating Drugs Partnership were responding to each of those areas (one of those areas being around young people and therefore impacting future generations). Alongside Zone 5-19, there had been a focus around families where a parent might have a substance misuse issue, and therefore looked at how families were supported and that’s where investment had been made. It was noted that the next Combating Drugs Partnership meeting would be taking place the following week with a children, young people and family focus and the Director of Public Health offered to take some of those considerations raised by the Panel today.
EPIC – Members heard that the Council had strong working relationships with Team Epic, and it was explained how they identified needs across the city and target that work accordingly rather than from a fixed location. It was noted that posters and QR codes were used and that the EPIC team undertake joint work with the Zone 5 to 19 service based in the Frenchgate Centre during school holidays and other areas where young people congregate to engage with young people. It was commented that the Zone 5 to 19 service had created their own interactive games to encourage people to come and talk. It was shared that the service also took into consideration out of school and social hours as part of their engagement plan.
Activities and Events - It was explained that there were mutual aid groups that use the Sober Social Project 6 building during the evening and at weekends with Project 6 being involved in different community activities. Examples were shared such as the Pride event, a quarterly evening Sober Social event on a Friday night, 80s disco and Murder Mystery night all co-produced with the community. It was explained that the approach was to find out what people wanted to do and arrange that where possible.
Use of Technology - Regarding the use of modern technology and social media, it was explained that there was a Facebook page accessed by many who use the service. Members heard that messages could be sent any time of the day and a response would always be provided as soon as it could be. It was recognised that there was a greater demand for extra curriculum activities.
Support During Yearly Celebrations - Concern was raised around events and celebrations that took place during the year and it was asked what was in place during such periods. It was recognised that it was important to also have a social model of support and care to help keep people on track and remain part of that community. Working communities through Well Doncaster and others that included grants for small organisations helped ensure that services were better connected across Community Voluntary Faith sector organisations to offer those grants and opportunities.
Members were informed that a great deal of preparatory work was undertaken with individuals using the service when approaching key times of year, such as Christmas, when people were more likely to struggle. It was commented that although the building was closed on Christmas day and Bank Holidays, the service continued to run in-between those days. Reference was made to the vibrant community that had been built, and it was believed that connections were essential to aid recovery and that this was about what took place outside of the building as well.
In reference to work undertaken within schools, it was explained that all secondary schools have a school nurse drop in, videos and talk sessions to classes and whole year sessions. It was explained that people can choose to engage with the service digitally, and parents through events such as parents evening, there was also a parent’s app available through which questions can be asked.
Employment – There was a brief conversation around what was available to support individuals back into employment and to remain employed. Members were informed that the Council commissioned the Changing Lives service to provide Individual Placements Support model to provide help into employment. It was explained that this was a national initiative looking to improve the pathways between commission treatment services and work. It was explained that Changing Lives was co-located with Aspire so that everyone in structed treatments could access the Individual Placement Support (IPS) to receive a tailored package to support them back into work (which includes contacting local employers and finding opportunities).
It was explained that IPS have a presence at New Beginnings (inpatients detox unit) and speak to clients undertaking detox as well as going to the Structured Day Programme (a 16-week programme following detox). It was stated that there was an accredited peer mentor training programme led by Aspire which provided a qualification. The IPS also undertakes a drop-in which provides an opportunity for the individual to have a chat with the IPS worker and talk through available placement or job opportunities. It was noted that key workers would mention the initiative when speaking to individuals and that there were also posters and information in all their buildings.
In reference to volunteers, it was explained that the training was accredited to a national qualification which was transferable and recognised by employers.
Next Steps – It was hoped that the fixed term additional funding (set for next 3 years) finishing this year, continues with a fair allocation of funding to substance misuse services. It was viewed that positive steps had been taken around the stigma element of substance misuse and Members were encouraged to use their experience from what had been learnt from the site visit and meeting, to continue this work and participate in what was taking place. Reference was made to a multi-year settlement which would enable plans to go forward beyond an annual basis. Stigma and stereotyping were mentioned and the need for positive strong partnership working to help overcome this.
Ongoing Support - In terms of supporting individuals who had relapsed on more than one occasion, it was stressed that the recovery journey would simply start over again with the right support put in place.
The Chair provided thanks for the site visit during the morning when Members heard about people’s experience. Members of the Panel were encouraged to attend and be part of the Recovery Games.
Action: To circulate Project 6 video when made available.
RESOLVED: That the Health and Social Care Scrutiny Panel note the improved access, quality and capacity of the Doncaster Substance Misuse Treatment and Recovery System in 2024.
7
Overview and Scrutiny Work Plan 2024-25 and Councils Forward Plan of Key Decisions
Attachments:
- Document MASTER WORK PLAN FINAL 202425 25 Sep 2024
- Document H&ASC O&S 1st Oc 24 to 31st Jan025 FP 25 Sep 2024
Minutes
The Senior Governance Officer presented the Scrutiny Work Plan and the Council’s Forward Plan of Key Decisions to the Panel for its consideration.
RESOLVED: That the report and items agreed for the workplan, be noted.
RESOLVED: That the report and items agreed for the workplan, be noted.
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