Responsible Service
Quality Assurance
What is the policy/strategy/function/ trying to achieve/do?
The purpose of the EQIA was to help inform whether any continuation of existing provision was required to help meet the needs of people with PMLD (Profound, Multiple, Learning Disabilities), and their unpaid carers, or whether this could be achieved without continuation in line with duties under the Equality Act. Equitable provision of support to unpaid carers across the authority area was a further consideration.
PAMIS currently provide additionality to the support already available to unpaid carers through the five commissioned carer focused organisations in North Lanarkshire. This additionality reflects that for unpaid carers within families caring for someone with profound learning and multiple complex disabilities, there is a need for support that goes beyond the existing provision offered through mainstream carer support. This need is recognised locally. Specific examples of additionality include the specialist knowledge provided to unpaid carers, (and to professionals) by the PAMIS Family Support Service, Postural Care support and training, PAMIS Digital Passport development. Specialist advice about changing places toilets and the provision of Pamiloo – a portable fully accessible toilet facility that enables families to access community resources and events.
The PAMIS Family Support Service ranges from one-to-one meetings, attending reviews and assessments, campaigning for improved intellectual and physical access, provision of fully inclusive accessible leisure and culture events and support to others to develop their offers, and ensuring that people with PMLD and their families are represented in strategic policy, planning and consultation at national and local level. Information provision and research identified as important by the families is undertaken by PAMIS, in partnership with the families. Innovative and creative models of delivering training to staff and families caring for people with PMLD is also an integral part of the service.
We want to ensure that we maintain our focus on Getting it Right for Everyone, through prevention, early intervention and anticipatory planning, allied to tackling inequality, in a fair, equitable and sustainable way and to ensure that there is no “postcode inequality” in service provision.
The current service provision is highly valued and offers a unique level of support to individuals with PMLD and their carers. Feedback from families supported by PAMIS demonstrates that, even with a relatively small investment from our Carers Budget, carers feel fully supported in their roles.
If this is a budget saving, how will the saving be achieved?
This review does not constitute a budget saving. However, it is anticipated that the early intervention and preventative approach delivered by PAMIS may contribute to reducing future demand on statutory services.
If this policy is subject to the FSD, what does it suggest about the impact or potential impact on socio-economic disadvantage?
Not applicable.
Give details of the impact it has on groups and individuals.
This service has a positive impact on people with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and their families by improving access to support, information, and meaningful participation in society. Through one-to-one support, advocacy during reviews and assessments, and representation in policy and planning processes, individuals and families are better able to have their voices heard and influence decisions that affect their lives.
The provision of inclusive leisure and cultural opportunities enhances social inclusion, wellbeing, and quality of life, while efforts to improve accessibility help reduce barriers faced by people with PMLD. Training and information provided to families and staff increases confidence, skills, and understanding, leading to improved care and support.
Overall, the service helps reduce isolation, supports rights and inclusion, and promotes more equitable access to services and opportunities for people with PMLD and their families.
What actions/measures will be put in place or are planned to mitigate any adverse impact or promote equality?
There are no adverse impacts identified as funding has been agreed to continue to specifically support people with PMLD and their unpaid Carers.
What is the result/recommendations of the EqIA?
The EQIA findings supported continuation of funding at this time, as engagement with the commissioned carer focused organisations highlighted that in relation to caring situations involving people with PMLD, PAMIS were cited as the "go -to" organisation.