A new community-led approach to providing adult social care has been launched in Thurrock, Essex.

Professionals and organisations operating in Thurrock were invited to an event by Thurrock Council to meet the new community-led support social work team.

Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions, One Community and Contact the Elderly were among those invited.

The new team will work initially with those living in Tilbury, East Tilbury, West Tilbury, Linford and Chadwell.

Residents in these areas will be given the opportunity to have face-to-face discussions with a team member in locations close to where they live.

The scheme is designed to bring adult social care to the community and offer more accessible, tailored support for those that require it.

Councillor Sue Little, portfolio holder for Children and Adult Social Care, said: “I was delighted to attend the team launch event, this is a really exciting initiative that will make a difference to our community.

“It is making adult social care more accessible, embodies collaborative working and explores solutions with people that are focused on achieving the things that matter most to them.

“Introducing this scheme to one part of the borough first will not affect our ability to provide living elsewhere with access to social care when required.”

To access the team, you can call Thurrock First on 01375 511 000 for an appointment or visit a drop-in session advertised on www.strongertogether.org.uk.