FOLLOWING an inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Worcestershire County Council’s Adult Social Care services have been rated Good.
The inspectors noted the strength, compassion and dedication at the heart of the county’s support for residents, with people consistently reporting positive experiences and feeling listened to and involved in decisions about their support.
The report highlighted clear evidence of compassionate, person-centred and strength‑based practice delivered by committed staff who put people first.
Inspectors also noted that Worcestershire’s approach to supporting people, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), is making positive and sustained progress across many areas.
The report praised several key areas of performance including assessments, with most people experience timely assessments, good communication and responsive support.
They also found the adult social care front door is effective, with strong triage, risk management and prevention offers such as the Targeted Adult Support Team (TAST), reablement services and assistive technology helping to prevent escalation of need.
Safeguarding systems was also praised, with people appropriately involved in support and protection plans to keep them safe from harm.
Most unpaid carers value the commissioned carers support service and feel listened to and there is effective collaboration with health, housing, VCSE organisations and system partners supports hospital discharge, prevention, safeguarding and community‑based solutions. Integration is developing well at the operational level.
The three-day inspection took place between November 11 and 13 last year, where inspectors spoke to staff, partners and people who draw on services.
The assessment reviewed performance across nine areas, including leadership, safeguarding, partnerships and how people experience care, with Worcestershire achieving consistently strong scores.
Strategic director for Adults and Communities, Mark Fitton, said: “This is a fantastic result for Worcestershire and, most importantly, for the people who rely on our services to lead a meaningful life.
“It is hugely encouraging to see that residents are receiving high‑quality, person‑centred support that reflects what matters to them, supports their independence and helps them achieve their own goals.
“This outcome is a real testament to the dedication, professionalism and compassion shown every day by our staff and partners, from social care teams and NHS colleagues to providers and voluntary organisations, who work together to make a positive difference to people’s lives.
“While we are proud of this recognition, our focus remains firmly on the future. We welcome the inspectors’ recommendations and are already taking forward an action plan to build on our strengths and continue improving the services we provide for residents.”
The report also identified areas where further progress can be made, including improving access to services in rural communities, strengthening support and communication for people moving between services, ensuring equitable access for under-represented groups, and increasing the availability of support for unpaid carers.
To read the CQC report in full, click here.
