Older People's Strategy - Newcastle City Council

69 Encourage older people to explore the possibilities ofdirect payments and individual budgets, supported bythe development of brokerage services. Recognise the needs of carers and invest in serviceswhich support them to continue in their caring role. Maintain and continually improve standards in the socialcare workforce through investing in staff training anddevelopment. Provide equipment and adaptations that help older peopleto live at home longer. Ensure the delivery of the vision for older people withmental health problems and Everybody’s Business. Introduce the new NHS ‘Life check for older people andtheir carers’ to assess their life risks and take steps to makehealthier choices. Safeguard vulnerable older people through multi-agencypolicies and procedures which protect older people. Embed the development of research programmes whichcontribute to the future health and well-being of thepopulation. Encourage and support the effective involvement of olderpeople and carers in the Older People’s Local ImplementationTeam, so that they can contribute to the planning of services.