Fife Council is far from alone in having to rethink how older people are cared for, according to the representative body for private and voluntary care homes
Councillors meet today to discuss plans that could eventually see all 10 of the council's residential care homes closed and alternatives sought in the private and not-for-profit sector.
With that in mind, Ranald Mair, the chief executive of theprivate sector group Scottish Care, said all councils are taking a long, hard look at what services they provide, but the current financial situation means the status quo doesn't appear to be an option for Fife.
He said, "We know local authorities will face huge pressures and one of the main areas councils will have to look at is whether or not they maintain in-house provision or buy care from the private or not-for-profit sector where there is usually a significantly lower cost.
"It's not just a question Fife facing public sector finance cutbacks and where to make savings: if the council is to continue being a direct provider, they will have to spend a lot of money redeveloping as their buildings are no longer fit for purpose.
"It's a double whammy and though Fife is unique in many ways, nationally this may be one way councils can try to get as much value as they can.
"The important thing is to safeguard the public and Courier readers will want to be satisfied they or their relatives are not getting lower quality of care in the private or not-for-profit sector.
Abridged
SOURCE: The Courier.co.uk
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