More than 2,500 vulnerable residents in Lancashire had to wait over four weeks for an assessment to determine the support they need to live safely in their homes. These delays, recorded in the final three months of 2023, affected individuals awaiting initial or follow-up appointments, as well as those requiring occupational therapy assessments.
The Lancashire County Council’s latest corporate performance report highlights the growing issue, which excludes data from Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen. Officials cite a nationwide shortage of occupational therapists as a major factor contributing to the backlog.
Extent of the Delays
The report shows that 2,697 people were left waiting for at least 28 days for their assessments. These delays impact some of the most vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with disabilities who rely on timely support to maintain their independence.
Government Response and Recruitment Struggles
Councillor Graham Gooch’s Statement
Graham Gooch, the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, acknowledged the delays and attributed them to a severe shortage of occupational therapists. He described the situation humorously yet seriously, stating:
“Occupational therapists are rarer than rocking horse dung.”
However, he reassured residents that they were not being ignored, emphasizing that the council maintains regular contact with those on the waiting list.
Opposition Concerns
Labour’s Deputy Opposition Leader Jennifer Mein recognized the efforts to stay in touch with those waiting but stressed that communication alone was not enough. She stated:
“It would be a lot better if they were actually assessed and in receipt of our services.”
Recruitment Challenges
Councillor Gooch highlighted the council’s ongoing recruitment efforts, explaining that they are working to train more in-house professionals. However, he noted that competition with the NHS for qualified occupational therapists is making the hiring process more difficult.
A National Problem
County Council Leader Phillippa Williamson emphasized that this issue is not unique to Lancashire. She pointed out that the shortage of occupational therapists is a nationwide crisis, affecting local authorities across the country.
Positive Progress in Other Areas
Despite the assessment delays, the report highlighted a positive achievement—the council exceeded its target for ensuring that residents return to their homes after hospital stays. The goal was to discharge 90% of eligible patients back to their own residence, but the county achieved 92.4% in the third quarter of 2024/25.
The shortage of occupational therapists has led to thousands of vulnerable Lancashire residents waiting weeks for essential assessments. While the county council is actively recruiting, the nationwide shortage remains a major hurdle. Despite these challenges, Lancashire has made progress in hospital discharges, ensuring that more residents return safely to their homes after receiving care.
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