When people think about the council, they often think about the things we are working hard on with our civic pride initiative: roads, parks, bins and street cleaning. These services matter enormously and residents rightly expect them to be delivered well. But some of the council's most important work takes place behind the scenes, helping older people, adults with disabilities and vulnerable residents live safely, independently and with dignity.
Since becoming Leader, one of the things that has stood out to me is the dedication of the people working across our Adult Social Care and Health services. Every day they support residents and their families through some of life's most challenging moments, helping people maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
I am proud that Thurrock's Adult Social Care services are rated Good by the Care Quality Commission. That reflects the professionalism and commitment of our staff, care providers and partner organisations across the borough.
A key part of our approach is helping people remain independent for as long as possible. Over the last three months, our reablement service has continued to deliver excellent results, with 89% of people referred either reducing their care needs or regaining the ability to look after themselves independently. That is a fantastic achievement and shows the difference early, targeted support can make to people's lives.
We're continuing to look at new ways of supporting residents, with services tailored around people's abilities, aspirations and individual needs. Whether through community support, technology, occupational therapy or specialist services, our focus is on helping people live fulfilling lives while maintaining as much independence as possible.
We have continued to make improvements that enhance the day to day experience of residents who rely on care services. Earlier this year, accessibility improvements were completed at Collins House, making the courtyard garden fully wheelchair accessible and allowing more residents to enjoy outdoor space comfortably and safely. I was also delighted to hear that Piggs Corner Extra Care Housing recently received a Good rating from the Care Quality Commission following its latest inspection.
More residents are also choosing to use direct payments, giving them greater flexibility and control over how their care needs are met. More than 820 residents now use the scheme, giving people more choice over the care and support they receive.
Supporting independence is not just about providing care when people need it. It is also about helping residents stay active, healthy and connected to their communities. That is why I was pleased to see the success of initiatives such as Beat the Street, a free and fun community challenge that encourages people to walk, cycle, run, scoot or wheel more, and Backside to Trackside.
More than 2,400 residents took part in Beat the Street across Chadwell St Mary and Tilbury, collectively recording more than 9,000 miles of active travel. The programme encouraged people of all ages to get moving, spend time outdoors and enjoy their local area. Similarly, 153 residents signed up for our first Backside to Trackside programme, with 82 people completing the final 5k challenge, many for the first time in their lives.
Building on that success, Beat the Street returns to Thurrock on 23 September, this time across East Tilbury, Stanford-le-Hope, Horndon on the Hill and Corringham. You will soon see the competition ‘Beat Boxes’ will be popping up on lampposts around the area for the duration of the six-week game.
You can get registered ahead of the Beat the Street challenge by visiting the competition website.
Supporting independence is not just about providing care when people need it. It is also about helping residents stay active, healthy and connected to their communities. That is why I was pleased to see the success of initiatives such as Beat the Street and Backside to Trackside.
More than 2,400 residents took part in Beat the Street across Chadwell St Mary and Tilbury, collectively recording more than 9,000 miles of active travel. The programme encouraged people of all ages to get moving, spend time outdoors and enjoy their local area. Similarly, 153 residents signed up for our first Backside to Trackside programme, with 82 people completing the final 5k challenge, many for the first time in their lives.
Helping people stay healthy in the first place is just as important as providing support when it's needed. Over 1,300 residents have received free health checks, helping identify potential health issues early and ensuring people receive the support they need before problems become more serious. Helping people stay healthy, active and connected benefits individuals, strengthens communities and reduces pressure on public services.
We are also embracing innovation and looking at new ways to improve outcomes for residents. Working with Thames Freeport, we are exploring how artificial intelligence could support health and social care professionals in their day-to-day work. Technology will never replace the human relationships at the heart of good care, but it can help professionals spend more time with residents and less time on paperwork.
Another welcome development has been the launch of new dementia drop-in sessions across the borough in partnership with the Alzheimer's Society. These sessions provide advice, practical support and reassurance for people living with dementia and the families who care for them.
Thurrock has many strengths, but our greatest strength will always be our people. By continuing to focus on wellbeing, quality support and helping residents stay active and connected, we can ensure people of all ages have the opportunity to live well and thrive.