ESSEX Cares, a trading company set up by Essex County Council in 2009 to take over the authority’s provision of adult social services, has won a contract to deliver related services in West Sussex.

From October 1, Essex Cares will provide “reablement” services in West Sussex for people being discharged from hospital, helping them to regain independence in the own homes.

The contract, awarded by West Sussex County Council and expected to involve help for around 2,000 people a year, runs for an initial three-year term, with the option of a further two years subject to performance.

The existing West Sussex County Council workforce currently involved in the service will transfer to the employment of Essex Cares.

Sherry Malik, chairman of Essex Cares, said: “This is a great landmark for the company. It shows that our experiences and of course our excellent track record of delivery has made us a natural partner for West Sussex County Council. We are delighted to be working with them.”

Mark Lloyd, managing director for Essex Cares, added: “We are pleased to become West Sussex County Council’s partner in providing these vital services.

“As a business we have proven ourselves as pioneers in innovative award winning service delivery; which ensure clear preventive outcomes such as enabling people to remain independent at home. In addition we recognise the importance of investing in a committed and well trained workforce.”

Amanda Rogers, West Sussex County Council’s adult services director, said: “This is good news for everybody across the county who could benefit from accessing the Regaining Independence Support Service.

“Essex Cares is inheriting a first class staff group and I have no doubt will take this service from strength-to-strength.”