Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is reviewing the future of its long-standing partnership with Torbay Council for the delivery of adult social care, as part of ongoing efforts to ensure services remain safe, high-quality and financially sustainable.
For over 15 years, adult social care in Torbay has been delivered through a Section 75 agreement, which has enabled close integration between health and social care teams. However, the financial context has changed significantly, with the Trust now carrying all the financial risk for adult social care and costs exceeding funding by around £35 million per annum.
“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,” said Joe Teape, Chief Executive of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.
“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.”
If the review leads to a decision to give 12-months notice on the contract, following the conclusion of the notice period the responsibility for delivering adult social care would transfer back to Torbay Council, mirroring arrangements already in place across the rest of Devon. The Trust emphasises that any change would be to contractual and financial arrangements, not to the quality or continuity of care.
“We know how important these services are to our community, and we take our responsibility seriously,” said Professor Chris Balch, Chair of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.
“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 investments in Torbay Hospital and community services—including the £14.2 million Emergency Department redevelopment and The Harbour community frailty service—demonstrate the Trust’s ongoing commitment to strengthening care locally.
The Trust’s Board will continue to consider all options as the financial context evolves and will keep local people updated as decisions are made.
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