A new community-led approach to providing adult social care has been launched in Thurrock.

Professionals and organisations including Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions, One Community and Contact the Elderly were invited to the event hosted by Thurrock Council at The Redeemed Christian Church of God in Tilbury, to meet Thurrock adult social care’s new community led-support social work team.

Attendees were introduced to the team, who will initially work with those living in Tilbury, East Tilbury, West Tilbury, Linford and Chadwell. As part of the service, residents in these areas of the borough will be given the opportunity to have face-to-face discussions with a team member in a convenient location close to where they live.

The scheme is designed to bring adult social work closer to the community and offer more accessible, tailored support for those that require it. If the approach in Tilbury and Chadwell proves successful, it will roll out to other areas across Thurrock.

Cllr Sue Little, Portfolio Holder for Children and Adult Social Care, said: “I was delighted to attend the team launch event, this is a really exciting initiative that will make a difference to our community. It is making adult social care more accessible, embodies collaborative working and explores solutions with people that are focused on achieving the things that matter most to them.

“Introducing this scheme to one part of the borough first will not affect our ability to provide people living elsewhere with access to social care when required.”

To access the Team, call Thurrock First on 01375 511 000 for an appointment or visit one of the drop-in sessions advertised via www.strongertogether.org.uk