Improvements to the way older people in Argyll and Bute receive their care services moved one step closer today after Argyll and Bute Council agreed to issue tenders to private companies interested in providing at-home, residential and day care.

The decision is a result of a complete review of older people’s services, which started more than two years ago, and has involved extensive consultation with staff, service users and families.

 Current research suggests that people are happier and healthier if they receive care in their own home. The council has been exploring ways to make this possible for more people and believes the tendering exercise will help make this possible.

 Councillor Andrew Nisbet, spokesperson for social affairs said:

“This is a very positive step towards our long-term goal of providing better care for older people. We know that people in Argyll and Bute are living longer, and are staying healthier as they get older. Changing the way we care for them now means that as the population gets older and lives for longer the options available will be closer to what people want – the option to remain in their own home or in more modern residential facilities.”

 Tenders will be issued at the end of May. Final decisions about whether or not to accept any of the tenders will have to be made by the full council.