The Cabinet considered a report of Executive Director (Adults and Communities) presenting the framework that sets out how the Council would implement the provision set out within the new Care Act easements, created under the Coronavirus Act 2020. This far reaching legislation had been enacted in response to the challenges arising from COVID -19. The Government had also published a range of guidance to support this unprecedented situation.

Resolved:

1. That the Care Act Easements framework that sets out how the Council would implement the provision set out within the new Care Act easements, created under the Coronavirus Act 2020, be approved.

2. That, following engagement with the Chief Executive ,the Leader of the Council and the Chair of People Scrutiny Committee, authority be delegated to the Executive Director (Adults and Communities), in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, to implement the Care Act Easements framework . This would be in line with Government guidance and as referenced in the framework and powers provided by the Care Act Easements under the Coronavirus Act 2020.

Other Options

Do nothing. However, if any of the trigger points were reached and the decision was not to enact the necessary easements then it is likely to result in urgent or acute needs not being met, potentially risking life.

Reasons for Recommendations

To ensure that the Council had an agreed framework that can be implemented if challenges resulting from covid-19 reach a critical level. Having a transparent process, that is underpinned by the Ethical Framework, with a clear rationale for any recommended actions will enable the Council to continue to safeguard vulnerable adults.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: People Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Harp