Changes to respite provision in Moray
Changes are being made to respite provision in Moray after it emerged that current buildings are no longer fit for purpose.
A decision to close Taigh Farrais in Forres and Doocot View, Buckie was made by members of the Moray Integration Joint Board (MIJB) last week.
Currently operating at just 50% capacity, Taigh Farrais provides respite services to a number of people with complex physical and sensory disability. The building is also not of a standard to meet with fire and safety regulations for this care group, and the level of usage for Moray residents represents a small percentage of those that use it.
Doocot View provides respite to 19 moray families for people with a learning disability. Again this facility was not operating at maximum capacity.
A facility at Birchview in Elgin - also running at less than 50% capacity – ensures there is provision within the system to accommodate residential placements. There is also the availability of bespoke services through self-directed support, aimed at delivering personalised approaches to care.
A range of consultations have been undertaken, and MIJB has assured families that staff are working with those individuals affected and their needs will be met during this period of change.
While the MIJB appreciates the change may upset some service users, the Board consider that their needs will be better met in a safer environment by closing these two facilities and helping access to other services in Moray.
Notes:
Moray Integration Joint Board is the public body who now has responsibility for adult health and social care services across Moray. It is the task of the board to look at existing services and consider how it can modernise and develop services fit for the future generations.The board recognises the responsibilities delegated and the challenges changes in service brings to people but noted in its discussions the need to push for modern approaches and fit for purpose facilities that ensure best value when deploying public resources.
Famous for its colony of dolphins, fabulous beaches and more malt whisky distilleries than any where else in Scotland, Moray is a thriving area and a great place to live. Nestling between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands, Moray stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Brodie Castle in the west.