Issue - meetings

To consider any requests received in accordance with Standing Orders.

RECEIVED the following deputations in relation to item 8 of the agenda (Corporate Plan Priority 2, outcome of consultation and decisions on proposals relating to Adult services).

a.         Haringey Autism and Save Autism Services Haringey 

Martin Hewitt on behalf of Haringey Autism and Save Autism Services in Haringey:

Mr Hewitt stated that whilst the consultation on the closures of the services detailed in the report was comprehensive, it was not transparent about what new provisions would replace the closed Day Centres.  Mr Hewitt, the father of an autistic person, emphasised that the parents and users of the provisions would suffer as a result of the closures. Parents relied on the Roundways for a good standard of care and respite. He felt that the report was not clear in stating that the respite provision would be preserved. The National Autistic Society had conducted research to establish the importance of the provision at The Roundways and had made it clear that users did not want to see it closed.  Mr Hewitt contended that the envisaged staff reductions were the most fundamental cuts in London.  Mr Hewitt expressed that the Council would not be able to deliver the promises made in the consultation and would be open to legal challenge with cuts of this level.

In response to a question from the Leader about whether he was sceptical of outcomes to be delivered or had uncertainty of the unknown, Mr Hewitt said that he was making an empirical point and that the Council could not provide the promised outcomes with the level of cuts. Mr Hewitt felt the Council would not be able to comply with the Care Act or effectively monitor the quality of care which would have an impact on parents and users.

The Leader spoke on behalf of all Cabinet Members, who were all aware of the gravity of the decisions being taken forward and that these decisions were being considered in the interest of the community.

Councillor Morton was invited to respond to the deputation and also made clear that, at this stage of the meeting, Cabinet Members had not yet made up their minds on how they were going to vote for the recommendations. There had been a significant 3 month consultation in the summer to draw out the issues being raised in the deputation.

Councillor Morton reminded Cabinet of the principles that would underpin the re-provision of services including: providing dignity and respect, meeting Care Act responsibilities, supporting independence, personal choice. In the co-design of services, the Council would be using the findings of the equalities impact assessments and actions to mitigate the impacts of transition would be taken forward. The services provided at the Roundways would be provided at Ermine road and there would be individual assessments and support to enable service user, currently at The Roundways, to choose services that will benefit them.

Councillor Morton added that in recent years, fewer people had been placed in the Council’s directly provided services for complex needs and  ...  view the full minutes text for item 107