The People Scrutiny Committee of Derbyshire Council is scheduled to consider a range of topics at its meeting on Friday 06 November 2026. Key among these is a consultation on the strategic review of Adult Social Care's low-level support for people with mental ill health, alongside a verbal report on winter planning for hospital discharge and avoidance, and a discussion on social work workforce stability.

Consultation on Adult Social Care's Mental Health Support

A significant portion of the meeting is expected to focus on the findings of a public consultation regarding the strategic review of Adult Social Care's low-level support for individuals experiencing mental ill health. The report pack indicates that this consultation aimed to gather insights from service users, carers, and professionals to inform future service delivery and commissioning arrangements. The review examined three existing support offers: the Derbyshire Recovery and Peer Support Service (DPRSS), the Derbyshire Mental Health Independent Living Service (DMHILS), and the in-house Mental Health Enablement service.

The consultation process, which ran from 29 June to 23 August 2026, involved online questionnaires, face-to-face events, and telephone support. A total of 411 responses were analysed, with feedback highlighting key themes such as the need for improved service design and capacity, the importance of peer support and safe communities, and the value of professional support and continuity. Concerns were also raised about access, awareness, and navigating the current support system, as well as the need for practical help that sustains wellbeing and effective prevention and early intervention strategies.

The report pack details that the analysis of the consultation responses indicated a preference for retaining the in-house Mental Health Enablement Service alongside commissioning or redesigning a low-level contracted support offer. The committee is expected to note the responses to this consultation and consider the implications for future service provision. This review aligns with the Council Plan 2026-2029 priority of creating communities where people live safe, healthy and independent lives by promoting prevention, early intervention, and recovery-focused support.

Winter Planning for Hospital Discharge and Avoidance

The committee is also scheduled to receive a verbal report concerning winter planning for hospital discharge and avoidance. This topic is likely to address strategies and measures being put in place to manage increased pressures on health and social care services during the winter months, focusing on ensuring timely and appropriate discharge from hospitals and preventing unnecessary admissions.

Social Work Workforce Stability

Another item on the agenda is the social work workforce stability. This discussion is expected to explore factors affecting the stability of the social work workforce within Derbyshire, potentially including recruitment, retention, training, and overall working conditions. Ensuring a stable and effective social work team is crucial for delivering essential services to vulnerable individuals and families across the county.