Older people who are supported, their families and carers, are soon to be asked what changes they would like to see in the provision of that care.

This is the latest move in the development of a Joint Strategic Plan for Older People which aims to enhance the quality of the lives of older people through the Health and Social Care Partnership.

The members of the partnership are Argyll and Bute Council, NHS Highland, the Argyll and Bute Community Health Care Partnership, third sector and independent care providers.

The partnership is committed to helping older people maintain their independence, to recognise and prevent difficulties, regain skills and confidence and deliver care to them which is dignified, respectful and focused on the individual.

The partnership has developed a draft Joint Strategic Plan for Older People, and now a wide ranging consultation is to take place to find out the views of everyone involved including service users and carers and everyone who organises care and support in our communities.

The partnership wants to know what people think of the plan so far, and what changes should be made to it. We will be asking older people who use our services, their families and carers.

The draft plan is lengthy and detailed, but a shorter, easy read version will be prepared for the consultation. This will be available on the council’s website in due course as will details of the consultation and how to take part.