The report shows that the service has been scored one point away from a ‘Good’ rating – with plans already in place to address shortfalls and put the council in a strong position for the future.
While this means that the service has been rated ‘Requires Improvement’ based on information from the first half of 2024, the report reflects the good work being done to support residents, despite also dealing with an increased demand on services.
The report notes that actions for improvement are in place, including moving statutory services staff back into the council and actively recruiting to replace interim senior leadership roles with full-time permanent employees.
The ageing case management system is also being replaced by Mosaic, aimed at simplifying recording and monitoring, saving time and increasing use of digital and minimising risk, which is due to go live in January 2025, with staff training already underway.
Councillor Catherine del Campo, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing Services said: “Our rating reflects the fact that we are working hard to deliver a good service against the backdrop of increasing demand and severe financial constraints.
“Whilst the CQC report shows that we have missed out on a good rating by one point, the report sends the clear message is that our improvement plan is the right one and as transformation work becomes embedded in everyday practice, we strengthen our position going forwards.”
The results were first announced at Cabinet on Wednesday 30 October, and a formal report will be presented at Cabinet on Wednesday 4 December.