Council prepares for rise in older prisoners needing social care in West Northamptonshire
“The agreement gives stability for the future and means we can continue responding to changing demand while providing high-quality support for those who need it most.” – Councillor Laura Couse
An expected increase in older prisoners needing social care has prompted West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to approve new arrangements for providing support at two local prisons.
Around 60 additional prisoners aged over 55 are expected to arrive in West Northamptonshire from May 2027, following planned expansion of the local prison estate.
The council's Cabinet has approved plans to continue providing integrated social care services at HMP Onley and HMP Rye Hill through a partnership with NHS England.
Under the Care Act 2014, councils are legally responsible for assessing and meeting eligible social care needs among prisoners within their boundaries.
The new agreement will begin on April 1, 2027, initially lasting two years, with options for two further one-year extensions.
It will replace existing arrangements which expire on March 31, 2027, ensuring prisoners already receiving support continue accessing services.
Councillor Laura Couse, WNC's cabinet member for adult social care and public health, said: "This decision means people with eligible care and support needs in our local prisons will continue to get the support they need and maintain their wellbeing.
"Working closely with NHS England and healthcare providers helps us make sure people receive the right support at the right time, while making best use of public money."
The council and NHS England must now finalise contractual arrangements before the existing agreement expires next March.