New strategy aims to help Buckinghamshire residents live independently for longer
Buckinghamshire Council has approved a new Better Lives Strategy, setting out how adult social care services will help people live independently for as long as possible and access the right support at the right time.
The strategy outlines a new approach focused on prevention, early help and supporting people to maintain their independence, helping residents stay healthy, safe and connected to their communities for longer. It aims to ensure people can access the information, advice and support they need before problems reach crisis point.
Built around three key themes – Living Independently, Regaining Independence and Living with Support – the strategy sets out how the council will work alongside residents, carers, communities, health partners and local organisations to improve outcomes for adults across Buckinghamshire.
The strategy includes commitments to make information and advice easier to access, strengthen community-based support, help people recover their independence after illness or injury, and give people greater choice and control over the support they receive. It also recognises the vital role carers play in helping people live fulfilling and independent lives.
Isobel Darby, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
"Most people want to live independently and maintain control over the decisions that matter to them. Our Better Lives Strategy sets out how we will support residents to do just that by helping people access the right support at the right time.
"Carers play a vital role in helping people live independently and we are committed to making sure they can access the advice, information and support they need. Our new service for unpaid carers of all ages across the county, delivered by Mobilise, is a great example of our commitment to carers. The service went live on 1 July 2026 and was developed in partnership with carers to better meet their needs: Support for carers in Buckinghamshire.
"This strategy is about working together with residents, carers, partners and communities to help people achieve the outcomes that matter most to them. By building on people's strengths and supporting independence wherever possible, we can help more people live well, stay connected and remain independent for longer."
To help explain the Better Lives Strategy and what it means for residents, Buckinghamshire Council has produced a short video featuring Councillor Isobel Darby. The video outlines the strategy's key priorities and how it will support people to live independently for longer.
As part of the strategy, residents are being encouraged to explore the wide range of information, advice and support available through Care Advice Bucks. The online resource helps people find guidance on staying independent, planning for future care needs, support for carers and information about local services and community organisations.
The Better Lives Strategy also supports the council's ambition to develop a sustainable, high-quality care and support system that offers residents greater choice, flexibility and personalised support when it is needed.
Find out more about the Better Lives Strategy and the support available.