Following news from CQC today that Isle of Wight Council’s Adult Social Care has been rated as ‘requires improvement’, the IW council respond below. Ed
The Isle of Wight Council is already taking action to improve services after a national watchdog rated its adult social care provision as “requires improvement”.
What the inspectors found
A report published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) scored the service at 62 per cent – just one per cent below the threshold needed to secure a “good” rating.
Council leaders said that although the findings highlight some areas for development, they also recognise a number of important strengths already in place across the service.
Laura Gaudion, the council’s strategic director for adult social care, said,
“We recognise there are areas where we need to improve, and we are already taking steps to address these.
“The report gives us a clear picture of where we are doing well, as well as where we need to go further, and it is encouraging that we are very close to a ‘good’ rating.
“We are committed to building on the progress already made and making sure people on the island receive the care and support they need.”
Where the service is performing well
The CQC report points to a range of positives, including strong safeguarding arrangements and effective partnership working with health services and the voluntary sector.
Inspectors also found that many residents could access support easily and received timely decisions about their care. People using direct payments reported positive experiences, with more choice over how their support is provided, while unpaid carers gave largely positive feedback about the support available to them.
The report highlights a strong culture of learning within the council, with staff saying they feel supported and able to raise concerns, alongside clear leadership and oversight of services.
Areas identified for improvement
At the same time, the regulator identified areas where improvements are needed, including reducing delays in some reviews, strengthening consistency of practice, and further developing alternatives to long-term residential care.
Work already underway
The council said work is already underway in these areas. This includes improving hospital discharge arrangements in partnership with NHS colleagues, expanding reablement services to help people stay independent for longer, and investing in systems and workforce development.
The Island’s unique challenges
The Isle of Wight’s unique context was also highlighted, with nearly a third of residents aged 65 or over, alongside the additional challenges of delivering services across a coastal and rural geography. These factors contribute to levels of demand and complexity that are higher than many comparable areas.
The council said it will continue working closely with staff, partners and residents as it takes forward its improvement plans.
