Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Managing Director, Care Dorset.

The shareholder committee considered a report, which provided an update on matters relating to Care Dorset since the previous meeting. This included Care Dorset’s financial and operational performance, workforce trends, governance and strategic priorities.

The Chair of the Board introduced Dr Felix Davies, a Non-Executive Director who had joined the board in August 2025 to strengthen clinical governance on the board. In addition, the Chair of the Board reported that Andrew Billany had left the board and expressed thanks for his contribution and experience.

In presenting the report, the Managing Director provided an overview of the areas covered including an update on average occupancy levels, continued partnership work with the council on day opportunities, community reablement and supported living. In addition, and in response to a request at the last meeting regarding the projected year-end financial position and re-forecasting work to be undertaken, further information had been provided in the report.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and points were noted in the following areas:

·       In respect of the Annual Business Plan update and the priority to transition to a hub and spoke model for day opportunities, a question was raised about opportunities to market provision. In response, the Managing Director noted that the outcome of the consultation was awaited, but that a set of proposals would be developed and that marketing, both in print and online, would be undertaken including a new website and working with community partners to signpost and promote opportunities

·       Thanks were expressed for information on the updated financial position and Care Dorset were commended on providing a position that showed a surplus. In response, the Managing Director reported that there was a continued focus on managing the use of agency staff, which had been assisted through the role of the neutral vendor and a new roster system. In addition, Care Dorset had worked hard with suppliers in relation to costs for products purchased

·       Reference was made to the importance of cyber security

The report was NOTED.