Plans for far-reaching improvements in health and social care services across Devon have just been published in a new report called 'The Way Ahead.' It details how Devon County Council and Devon Primary Care Trust jointly plan to achieve better and health care and treatment for the people of Devon over the next five years – making the most of new technology and supporting people to stay healthy and independent throughout life. The proposals address the varying social and health care needs of Devon's 750,000 population - from new born babies to people with long term conditions and disabilities. Kevin Snee, chief executive of Devon Primary Care Trust, said: 'We have deliberately set the bar high because we want to aim for the very best care and treatment – in every part of the county.' The framework for the future includes plans to make services more convenient, closer to people's homes and tailored to the demands of modern life. The Way Ahead also sets out a comprehensive plan to: l Put more emphasis on helping people to stay healthy. l Target extra support towards more deprived communities. l Help every child and young person get the best start in life. l Shift more care into people's homes and local communities. l Make a difference to care for people with long term conditions or disabilities – and their carers. l Pick up mental health problems early on and keep the focus on recovery and therapy. l Ensure that services in Devon match the best nationally.