Issue - meetings

The Board considered a report of the Executive Director – Adult Services, which provided an overview of the updated two year Joint Working Agreement (JWA) between Halton Borough Council (HBC) and NHS Cheshire & Merseyside (CM), taking effect from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025. The JWA replaced the previous one year JWA which was approved by both organisations in March 2023.

          It was noted that since March 2023, national guidance had been issued in respect of the Better Care Fund (BCF) Plan and discussions had also taken place between HBC and NHS CM regarding the governance arrangements in respect to the Pooled Budget. This had resulted in the establishment of a Joint Senior Leadership Team (JSLT) between HBC and NHS CM. The JSLT would be responsible for the direction, oversight and monitoring of the BCF Plan and associated Pooled Budget. The JSLT would be supported in this duty by the Better Care Commissioning Advisory Group.

          The new governance arrangements along with links to the two year BCF Plan had been reflected in the new JWA.

          The benefits of both organisations working together collaboratively and in partnership would mean that achievable and sustainable good health  and wellbeing for the people of Halton. 

          RESOLVED:  That the Board note the contents of the report.