Changes to Homecare services
We are making important changes to the way homecare services will be delivered by us. This update is designed to improve the quality and personalisation of care, ensuring that the support you receive better aligns with what matters most to you.
What's changing
Our new approach will transition from a traditional "time and task" model to an "outcomes-based" model. This change means that, rather than focusing strictly on set tasks within allocated time slots, your care will be directed towards helping you achieve outcomes that are meaningful to you. This might include greater support for increasing independence, maintaining community connections, or simply doing more of what you enjoy.
Everyone who currently receives generalist home care services under the Council's contracts will change to the new contract. The process ensures there will be no changes to the services you receive, with one contract ending and the other starting the day after.
How it will work
To ensure a more consistent and familiar service, Gateshead has been divided into nine subzones. Each of these subzones will have a dedicated care provider, meaning that carers assigned to your area will be more familiar to you, helping to build continuity and trust. This structure will also enhance communication and make it easier to adapt to your individual needs and preferences over time.
This may mean that your current provider may change, but will make sure that you continue to receive a high-quality service, and we will work with everyone involved to keep disruption to a minimum. It may be possible that your current care worker(s) could move to your new provider. We cannot guarantee that this will happen, however, all efforts will be made to ensure you have the same carers where possible.
Map of areas and providers
| Provider | Zone |
|---|---|
| Hales | 1A |
| DK Homecare | 1B |
| Perfect Care | 2A |
| Human Support Group | 2B |
| Comfort Call | 3A |
| Boomerang | 3B |
| Care Quality Services | 4A |
| Dale Care | 4B |
| Calderdale | 4C |
What this means for you
Your care will continue to be provided by trained, compassionate staff who are committed to supporting your wellbeing. Under this new model, you'll be encouraged to discuss what's most important to you, and your care plan will be adjusted to help you meet these personal goals. This shift is about giving you more choice and flexibility, allowing your care to be tailored in a way that is responsive and meaningful to you.
Next steps
We understand that any change can bring questions, and we are here to support you through this transition. If you have immediate questions or would like to discuss this change in more detail, please feel free to contact us directly by email at cafolderpeoplecommissioning@gateshead.gov.uk or by phone on 07596 318 608 or 07751 970 497.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to provide a more personalised and effective homecare service. We look forward to supporting you in achieving outcomes that enhance your quality of life.