PROPOSALS to transform a former Llandysul care home into centre supporting individuals with learning disabilities and mental health issues have been backed by Ceredigion County Council's cabinet.

Members approved the plans for the future use of Awel Deg after considering an overview of the options for the former care home.

It was decided that the preferred option by members is an ambitious integrated Health and Social Care Model.

The model agreed will see the local authority and Hywel Dda University Health Board working with third sector partners to create a 24-hour resource for mental health and dementia services, coupled with learning disabilities services and delivery of a social enterprise.

Cllr Catherine Hughes said: “This is really exciting opportunity for the council to explore innovative and collaborative models of care that meet the mental health and wellbeing needs of the residents, of not just Llandysul, but also a model to expand and develop.”

Council officers and health board staff will now seek to develop more formal proposals under a collaborative agreement.

Sue Darnbrook, director of care, protection and lifestyles said: “It is clear the Social Services and Well Being Wales Act (2014) will require us to work in a more collaborative and enterprising way, this project in Awel Deg is our opportunity to lead the way delivering new and innovative services.”

Julie Denley, interim director of mental health and learning disability services said: “The health board sees this as a fantastic opportunity to work differently, the key aim being to provide easily accessible services whist also striving to address some challenging recruitment issues by attracting clinicians to work in the area supporting modern and innovative services.”