The Network is the Key: How KeyRing supports vulnerable adults in the community

Costs and savings

In 2009 the Department of Health (Care Services Efficiency Delivery – CSED) evaluated three KeyRing Networks in terms of cost and benefits. It concluded that KeyRing Networks are effective in significantly reducing the level of paid support that Members receive while enabling them to achieve good outcomes.

“Support from the volunteer and by other Members is very flexible, so people can have more or less support as required. Frequent contact helps identify potential problems early. This helps to sustain community living and reduces the escalation of needs that can lead to increased:

• Demand for specialist services;
• Hospital admissions, and
• Crime levels, homelessness, etc.”

“By de-professionalising practical support, the more expensive time of professional staff can focus on the highest risk issues”       (CSED)

CSED concluded that the average saving on social care expenditure per Network Member per year is £1,491.

Prices vary according to local circumstances and the amount of paid support that goes into a Network. However, typically a Network place costs around £5,000 per year.

Jill Parker
provided Governance International with this case study on 25th June 2010