Brokerage Team

The Brokerage team find and provide services and support based on your individual  assessed care and support plans. These services are tailored for each person and focus on your current skills and ways of coping. The Team also helps people connect with the community and any personal networks so you can live as independently as possible.

Brokers help by:

  • Finding care and support providers who can meet your needs and preferences.
  • Providing information about service providers, such as service costs, Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings, and whether the provider can meet your specific preferences.
  • Arranging the service and support for you.
  • Providing information about different types of support available from the statutory, independent, and voluntary sectors.
  • Offering information about a variety of services, including day opportunities, community services, home based care, and residential and nursing care homes.

If you would like some help in finding care providers and other resources, you can contact email us at brokerage@nottscc.gov.uk

Frequently asked questions

What is the function of the Brokerage Team?

The aim of brokerage is to ensure that people receive the right care at the right time, and that care needs are met in a way that promotes independence, dignity, and wellbeing. This care should be sourced and arranged in the most cost-effective way possible. Brokers help people access appropriate care services that meet their specific assessed needs and preferences. This may involve:

  • Providing information and advice on the available care options
  • Identifying suitable care providers
  • Negotiating care packages, ensuring price breakdown demonstrates appropriate charges
  • Supporting monitoring the quality of care provided
  • Liaising with the person and families to offer choice and control over the brokered service
  • The brokerage team source care and support for adults and their family/representatives within the county of Nottinghamshire.

To receive support through Adult Social Care, a person must undergo a social care assessment and meet the eligibility criteria set out in the Care Act 2014.

What are the benefits of using Adult Social Care Brokerage?

  • Personalised Support: Brokers offer tailored services to meet individual needs, providing a person-centred care experience.
  • Efficiency: Brokers streamline the care process by coordinating between multiple service providers, saving time and resources.
  • Improved Outcomes: Tailored services lead to improved outcomes and higher satisfaction for people.
  • Increased Independence: Brokers support people in gaining more control and making better choices regarding their services, promoting independence.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Brokers negotiate terms and prices to secure better value for money.
  • Holistic Approach: Brokers consider all aspects of well-being, including mental, emotional, and physical health, ensuring a comprehensive care experience.

What activities will brokerage undertake?

People who have been assessed as eligible for care and support under the Care Act 2014 can be referred to the Brokerage Team. The broker will act on behalf of the Council and the person/their representative to:

  • Source available care and support placements.
  • Negotiate the cost of the placements.
  • Provide information (signposting).
  • Encourage and develop informal support.
  • Coordinate support and resources.
  • Assist a person to manage their obligations and responsibilities in relation to a budget.
  • Facilitation to make things happen.

How long will it take for the brokerage team to source a residential or nursing placement?

The time it takes for the brokerage team to source a residential or nursing placement can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the person's needs, the availability of suitable placements, and the efficiency of the local brokerage process.

Sometimes, this process can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the urgency and specific requirements such as the type of care needed, the location of the placement, and the person's preferences.

If you have specific needs or a particular timeframe, discuss this directly with the brokerage team. They can provide more precise information based on the situation.

Will the person and their family/representatives have a choice in which care or nursing home to choose from?

The Brokerage Team is committed to offering assistance and advice to the person and their representatives in understanding their care options. This involves discussing the advantages and disadvantages of different choices to ensure they feel supported and can make informed decisions. In cases where NHS Continuing Healthcare funding is involved, the financing must cover all assessed care needs, and the chosen care home or provider should be suitable for the person’s requirements.

How can I contact the brokerage team?

Nottinghamshire residents can contact the Brokerage team directly themselves at: brokerage@nottscc.gov.uk

What time does the brokerage team work?

Monday to Thursday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Friday 9.00 am to 4.30 pm

Will the brokerage team send the person’s care and support plan to the residential care/nursing home?

The brokerage team is responsible for sending the care home provider the person’s care and support plan. This plan outlines the specific support that will be provided to meet the needs of the person in your care. It includes details such as the type of care required, and any special considerations.

Can I choose which care home I live in?

Individuals and their family/representatives have the autonomy to select the care home of their choice. They have the option to evaluate care homes based on their Care Quality Commission (CQC) ratings, which encompass classifications such as outstanding, good, requires improvement, and inadequate. Furthermore, they have the opportunity to review the most recent CQC status reports for each care home provider.

How will I know how much it will cost me?

During your assessment with a social worker, they will discuss your needs and share the cost of a care home commissioned by the council. Additionally, the council may provide details about third-party top-ups, fee enhancements, and any previous cost of care reports.

Can I look at care homes before making a choice?

Certainly, prior to making a decision, it is advisable to visit various care homes.

If I choose a care home and do not like it, can I move after?

Yes, you can move to a different care home if you do not like the one you initially chose. The policy allows for flexibility in care home placements, ensuring your needs and preferences are met. If you find your selected care home unsuitable, you can discuss your concerns with the brokerage team. They can assist you in finding a more appropriate placement and guide you through the process of moving to a different care home.

What happens if I do not choose a care home?

The brokerage team will assist you if you do not choose a care home. They will work to find a suitable care home placement that meets your needs and preferences. The team will consider various factors, such as your care requirements, location preferences, and any other specific needs you may have.

If you have any concerns or specific requirements, it is important to communicate them to the brokerage team, so they can find the best possible placement for you.

Can I move to a different area?

Yes, under the Care Act 2014, when an adult receiving care and support plans to move to a different county, there are specific procedures to ensure continuity of care. You can move to a different area to change your care home. If you decide to move, you can discuss your preferences with the brokerage team. They will liaise with your social worker and assist you in finding a suitable care home in your desired area.

How long do I have to make a choice?

The timeframe for choosing your care home can vary; contact the brokerage team if you need more specific information about the timeframe or have any concerns. They can provide you with detailed guidance and support throughout the decision-making process.

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