£35m funding pressure prompts review of Torbay adult social care deal

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is reviewing its long-standing partnership with Torbay Council for the delivery of adult social care.

The trust said the review is part of efforts to ensure services remain safe, high quality and financially sustainable.

Adult social care in Torbay has been delivered for more than 15 years under a Section 75 agreement, allowing close integration between health and social care teams. However, the trust said the financial situation has changed significantly, with it now carrying all financial risk and costs exceeding funding by around £35m a year.

Chief executive Joe Teape said the trust was proud of what the model had achieved.

He said: “We’re proud of what our integrated model has achieved for local people, and the Care Quality Commission’s recent ‘Good’ rating for Adult Social Care reflects the dedication of our teams.

“But the financial pressures are real and growing. We have a duty to balance our budget and deliver safe services for our population, not just today but for the long term. That’s why our Board is reviewing the Section 75 agreement. No decisions have been made yet and our priority remains continuity of care and support for our staff and communities.”

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If the trust decides to serve 12 months’ notice on the contract, responsibility for adult social care would return to Torbay Council once the notice period ends, in line with arrangements elsewhere in Devon.

The trust said any change would relate to contractual and financial arrangements and not to the quality or continuity of care.

Trust chair Professor Chris Balch said they were facing “tough choices”.

He said: “We know how important these services are to our community, and we take our responsibility seriously.

“We’re facing some tough choices, but our focus is on making sure that whatever happens, people continue to get the care and support they need. We’ll keep working closely with our partners to do what’s right for Torbay and South Devon.”

Recent investment in Torbay Hospital and community services, including a £14.2m redevelopment of the emergency department and The Harbour community frailty service, was highlighted as evidence of ongoing commitment to local care.

The trust said its board would continue to consider all options and keep local people updated as decisions are made.