Adult Social Care 

There are over 22,000 unpaid carers in Hillingdon. Only one in five is known to the council. 

• Liberal Democrats will launch a borough-wide campaign to identify hidden carers, expand access to replacement care and short breaks, and ensure every carer who requests one receives a Carer's Assessment. 
• Liberal Democrats will review the current respite offer to improve flexibility.

Home adaptations can determine whether a resident remains independent or enters a care home. 

• Liberal Democrats will accelerate Disabled Facilities Grant delivery to reduce waiting times. 
• Liberal Democrats will also work with housing partners to expand extra care housing (self-contained flats with on-site care) as an alternative to residential care for those who need support but not a care home.

Hillingdon's care homes have 1,380 beds; 86% are rated Good. However, occupancy is 96% and nursing bed capacity is constrained. 

• Liberal Democrats will support the development of new, smaller care homes compliant with CQC standards to meet the needs of people with dementia and complex conditions. 
• Liberal Democrats will work with the ICB to integrate health and social care in care homes to reduce avoidable hospital admissions.

The council has developed supported living schemes that enable people with learning disabilities and autism to live independently. Unfortunately, too many residents are still placed out of borough, away from family and friends. 

• Liberal Democrats will accelerate the development of new, small-scale supported living and residential provision within the borough, compliant with CQC guidance.

Loneliness increases the risk of dementia, heart disease, and depression. At Warm Welcome Centres this winter, residents identified loneliness as their main concern. 

Liberal Democrats will work with Age UK, Carers Trust, MHA, and community groups to expand social opportunities for older people, including befriending services, tea dances, walking groups, and intergenerational activities.