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Secretary of State launches key data sharing project |
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The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, Hazel Blears, visited Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service recently to officially launch a unique information-sharing project which will provide better services for vulnerable elderly people.
The service has worked in partnership with numerous agencies including the NHS, Cheshire County Council Social Services, Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Information Consortium and Business Insight and IT providers IBM and Esprit to set up a system and protocol for sharing information about vulnerable people.
The system ensures the risks facing vulnerable residents are reduced and that people are given easy access to all the support and advice they need. In launching the initiative Hazel Blears, said: “This is an excellent example of the Fire and Rescue Service spotting an issue and doing something about it. You are thoroughly respected and trusted in the communities you serve and as a result of your drive and determination and the commitment of key partners, vulnerable elderly people in Cheshire can now benefit from many more services.” Councillor Tony Hooton, Chair of the Fire Authority added: “My thanks go to our partners who have worked with us to accomplish a truly unique achievement. This project and other initiatives will allow us to target those in most need and to continue reducing house fires, damage to property, fire deaths and injuries.”
During her visit, the Minister spent an hour meeting staff from across the service and was also introduced to 92-year-old Mrs Marjorie Clayton from Poynton who received a whole package of support services as a result of information received during a Home Safety Assessment carried out by the service. (See pg 34 Cheshire Focus).
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