Care expert heading north on fact-finding mission to see health projects

Dame Philippa Russell, who is the chair of the Government’s Standing Commission on Carers advisory panel, is carrying out a two-day fact-finding exercise and will meet members of the council’s adult social care team and partners to learn more about the work being done to help those with mental health needs and their carers.

The visit concludes on Wednesday with a visit to the adult social care team’s Killingbeck offices to hear about the Carers’ Emergency Plan service, which can provide a replacement for a family carer for up to 48 hours in a crisis.

Dame Philippa will also visit charity Carers Leeds and some of the council’s healthcare partners.

Councillor Adam Ogilvie, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, said: “Sharing our progress and ideas, as well as learning from each other through events like this, can give a big boost to our efforts to ensure vulnerable people in Leeds have the best possible care and support.”

Dame Philippa also serves as a member of the Ministerial Advisory Group on the Mental Health Strategy.