This in from the council. Ed
The Isle of Wight Council has been found to continue to be ‘performing well’ in delivering adult social care.
The finding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) means services provided by the council are “consistently delivered above the minimum requirement, are cost effective and make contributions to wider outcomes for the community.”
While deemed performing well overall, the council was also judged in seven specific areas.
Making positive contribution
It was found to be ‘excellent’ in making a positive contribution and ‘performing well’ in six other categories; improved health and well being, improved quality of life, making a positive contribution; freedom from discrimination or harassment, economic wellbeing and maintaining personal dignity and respect.
Among strengths found by inspectors were a successful review of the criteria for safeguarding referrals, the support given to carers in the safeguarding process and the emergency assistance that was available to carers in times of crisis.
Clear vision for developing adult social care
Inspectors found the council, with strong support from elected members, had a clear vision for developing adult social care services reflecting the priorities of the national Putting People First agenda.
The significant work done to support the move to personal budgets was highlighted as was the council’s success in working with partners in the health service to ensure continuity of care. The increase in clients benefiting from direct payments was also among strengths noted.
Addressing areas for improvement
Plans have already been put in place to address areas for improvement that were identified. These areas included the need to improve liaison with health partners in respect of safeguarding and the need to tackle rates of sickness and staff turnover.
The report – that covers the 2009/10 financial year during which the responsible cabinet member was Cllr Dawn Cousins – will be discussed by Cabinet at its 7 December meeting.
Cllr Roger Mazillius, current cabinet member for adult social care, said he welcomed the CQC report and said that it was testament to the efforts of staff at all levels of the service and also his predecessor Cllr Cousins.
“This performing well rating was achieved during a period of significant change as we move towards personalised budgets,” Cllr Mazillius said.
“Of course adult social care provision will continue to develop in the coming years through the need to make sure our services are delivered as efficiently as possible and to the people most in need of our support.
“It is encouraging that this work will be undertaken by a service that has been found by independent inspectors to be performing well throughout and performing excellently in one specific area.
“We have maintained a sound base from which to professionally manage some important changes to the service.”
The report to be discussed by cabinet can be accessed online
