A PROJECT has been launched in Ryedale to provide more flexible care for people in their homes while supporting people creating or expanding a business.

The “help at home” scheme aims to increase the number of small care providers, particularly in rural areas, to complement existing support services. It is being managed on behalf of North Yorkshire County Council by Community Catalysts, a community enterprise.

Cllr Michael Harrison, executive member for adult services and health integration, said: “The project is a response to the increasing number of people needing care and support in Ryedale’s villages. “We aim to increase the number of caring solutions and widen the care on offer, particularly to people who use our direct payments scheme to take more control of their personal care budget.”

Direct Payments are cash payments paid to people in lieu of commissioned services. Having a direct payment gives people the ability to self-commission and tailor their own support in way that suits them best.“This is an opportunity for people who run a small business and are looking to diversify and those who are considering a career in the caring sector to set up their own small business,” said Cllr Harrison. We want to appeal to people within Ryedale, so this is also about creating jobs within the area and enabling people to stay here to develop their businesses. It’s support for and by local people.”

Community Catalysts can assist people who want to be self-employed or set up and run their own small enterprise offering help at home for people in the community.

Richard Webb, corporate director for health and adult services, said: “We are delighted to be working with Community Catalysts to develop and deliver innovative approaches to support and care for people living in the Ryedale district. This project aims to offer additional choice by complementing existing provision for individuals looking for additional support to maintain independence and wellbeing.”

For details, email kathy.peacock@communitycatalysts.co.uk or phone 07503 800094.