Directions from integration authorities to health boards and local authorities: guidance

3 Process for issuing and revising directions

3.1 A direction will remain in place until it is varied, revoked^[7] or superseded by a later direction in respect of the same function.

3.2 The legislation does not set out fixed timescales for directions. This flexibility allows directions to ensure that delivery of integrated health and social care functions is consistent with the strategic commissioning plan, and takes account of any changes in local circumstances. In contrast with the strategic commissioning plan, there is therefore scope for directions to include detailed operational instructions in relation to particular functions (and the associated services).

3.3 Directions issued at the start of the year should be subsequently revised during the year in response to developments.

3.4 For example, should an overspend be forecast on either of the operational budgets - for health or social care services provided by the Health Board and Local Authority - the Chief Officer will need to agree a recovery plan to balance the overspending budget (in line with the provisions in the Integration Scheme and statutory guidance^[8] for finance under integration). This may require an increase in the payment to either the Health Board or Local Authority, funded by either:

• Utilising an underspend on the other arm of the operational integrated budget to reduce the payment to that body; and/or
• Utilising the balance on the general fund, if available, of the IJB.

3.5 A revision to the directions will be required in either case.