FIRST CONTACT SCHEME

This is an exciting new project being developed in partnership between Lincolnshire County Council, Lincolnshire Primary Care Trust, District Councils and Age Concerns in Lincolnshire – the aims of the scheme are to provide a single gateway, signposting service, through which older people [aged 60+] can access services. The scheme is being launched in the East Lindsey District Council area and will be rolled out to other areas of the County over the next year.

28 April 2008 - East Lindsey

27 October 2008 - Boston, South Holland, West Lindsey & Lincoln

26 January 2009 - North and South Kesteven

Overview

The First Contact signposting scheme:

• Assists older people (aged 60 and over), by talking to just one peson, in accessing services which they may not have been aware of or may not have known how to contact;

• uses a simple, quick and easy checklist process enabling front line staff and volunteers to navigate and access services;

• promotes holistic and pro-active working through multi-agency training, enabling staff and volunteers to signpost with confidence;

• works with a wide range of organisations including small voluntary groups which have a local or specific focus; and

• enables and encourages take up of services through trusted and known professionals and volunteers advising on appropriate services within the older person's own home.

For further details on this scheme please contact the Chief Executive Officer or PA to the Chief Executive Officer on 01522 812838 during office hours.