THE BIG SOCIETY AND SERVICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE

The LinkAge Plus pilot programme started in 2006 and ended in October 2008. Its aim was to develop new ways of working to meet the needs and aspirations of older people better. The core principles established by the programme are now being taken forward in a modified form as part of the Big Society. The major differences are that there will be increased emphasis on localism and empowerment, a commitment to continually learn and evolve services and increased emphasis on the importance of treating older people as an integral part of the general adult population.

There is widespread acknowledgement that traditional approaches to service delivery for older people, and adults in general, will not be appropriate in the future. As a result, the local authorities and their partners addressed in the case studies are all undertaking activities and development work to improve and develop joined-up. They are working to ensure that service users have more say in the service design and delivery routes. They are also involved in delivery of some of the services themselves and the services are developed to encourage and support independent living and overall well-being.

The framework for delivering joined-up working which has now been put in place
harmonises with The Big Society which recognises the benefits of joined-up working.

LOCAL DELIVERY OF JOINED-UP SERVICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE is available from DWP.