Care services across Dorset are now expected to finish the financial year in profit after earlier forecasts warned of a significant loss.
A six figure shortfall had previously been anticipated, largely linked to delays in opening fifty five extra care flats at St Martin’s in Gillingham, with the scheme now operational and contributing to improved financial performance.
Updated figures show bed occupancy across care homes averaging ninety three per cent, an increase of two per cent, while day opportunities exceeded contracted hours and community reablement delivered more than twelve thousand hours, helping to reduce longer term care needs.
During the three months to November last year, more than thirty thousand hours of support were provided to three hundred and seventy two people, exceeding the contracted level with Dorset Council, while workforce turnover remained below sector averages and sickness levels stayed broadly stable.
Training activity also increased following the launch of the CarePath Academy, with over five thousand hours delivered and compliance reaching eighty five per cent, described as reflecting strong engagement and a clear trajectory towards full compliance.
Work is continuing with Dorset Council on the redevelopment of Sidney Gale House in Bridport into a fifty six bed reablement centre, with the project remaining on track, subject to planning approval and a Cabinet decision to award the construction contract in May this year.
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