The plan, which is published online, sets out the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership’s (HHSCP) vision and ambitions to improve the health and wellbeing of adults living in the area over the next three years by shifting the balance of care away from residential provision where possible.

The plan is aspirational and will utilise and build upon existing forums and mechanisms to develop and implement Locality Delivery Plans under a consistent strategic framework.

Commenting on the proposed implementation of the plan, Councillor David Fraser, Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Committee Chair, said: “Local engagement is key to the delivery of this Highland-wide plan and will be achieved through the creation of District Locality Planning Groups.

“Nine District Locality Planning Groups will include community, carer, health and social care services, independent and third sector members. The groups may also include elected members, community councillors, GPs, and other sectors such as housing. This will help us deliver solutions that reflect the different needs of our communities right across Highland.

“These groups will work towards ensuring geographical parity and fairness in the provision of adult care services and I look forward to taking part in and supporting that process.”

Building upon and developing Highland-wide strategies covering workforce, housing, telecare and digital, self-directed support, handyperson scheme, care at home, managing complex cases and shared lives will help inform the local plans.

The HHSCP Strategic Plan can be viewed online.