Thousands of people use First Point of Contact number for social care advice
More than 14,000 calls have been made to a Shropshire Council contact number for adults who require help, support or advice about social care for the first time, in the year since it was launched.
From Friday 13 May 2011 customers have been able to call a single number – 0345 678 9044 – for help and access to the council’s adult social care services.
The number is the first port of call for new customers who need social care support.
All calls are dealt with sensitively and in the strictest of confidence by a friendly and dedicated team of advisers at Shropshire Council’s customer service centre, who ensure customers get the right help and support as quickly and easily as possible. They can identify whether someone is eligible for a service at first point of contact, and signpost individuals to other relevant services within the council.
The team deals with requests for services for people with sensory impairment, a physical disability, a learning disability, and older people.
Ann Hartley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, said:
“We want to ensure that services are being delivered in the best way possible, and this single number is designed to give a consistent and efficient response to those seeking information and advice about adult social care for the first time.
“People in need of social care support can be reassured in receiving a comprehensive, convenient service that responds to their needs as quickly as possible.”
Tina Woodward, deputy Cabinet member responsible for customer care, said:
“I am really pleased that our dedicated team of advisers has been able to help thousands of people since the number was launched.
“The improved service means that customers no longer need to call different numbers across the county. Having one clear point of telephone contact for adults who require help, support or advice about social care makes it easier for customers to access the services they need.”
People who already receive social care support from the council can still call their local social care team.
If you or someone you know requires help, support or advice about social care for the first time, then call the First Point of Contact number on 0345 678 9044. The Minicom number is 01743 210318.
Telephone lines are open between:
- Mondays: 8am to 6pm
- Tuesdays: 8am to 6pm
- Wednesdays: 8am to 6pm
- Thursdays: 8am to 6pm
- Fridays: 8am to 6pm
- Saturdays: 9am to 1pm.
Closed on Bank Holidays.
For emergency calls, customers can still call the out of hours service on 0345 678 9040.
