Dudley adult social care rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
Dudley Council’s adult social care service has been rated ‘Good’ in its first full assessment under the Care Quality Commission’s national assurance framework.
The findings show adult social care in Dudley is performing to a good standard in many key areas, with committed staff, strong partnership working and a strong focus on improving outcomes for residents of the borough.
Adult social care staff were extremely proud of inspectors’ initial feedback during the visit which highlighted Dudley's unique approach to ensuring people with lived experience were involved in every aspect of the inspection process, enabling their voices and experiences to fully inform the inspection.
Inspectors highlighted how staff worked closely with local people and organisations to shape plans and improvements. Feedback about this experience was extremely positive, with those involved saying their voices were genuinely listened to.
The report recognised how preventative services are having a positive impact on the wellbeing outcomes for people, supporting independence and helping them stay well at home for longer.
It commended adult social care’s inclusive and responsive approach, tailored to the needs of the borough’s diverse communities.
Inspectors praised a deeply person-centred, strengths-based approach, with a strong focus on improving outcomes and helping people to understand their options and make informed choices about their support.
Those with lived experience highlighted good communication by social workers and occupational therapists, providing information that was clear and easy to understand.
The report recognised leaders have a good understanding of the strategic direction needed to achieve the best possible outcomes for people and that they, and staff are passionate and committed to their roles, with a clear vision for the future for adult social care in Dudley borough.
The assessment also recognised areas where improvement is already underway, including work to reduce waiting times, strengthen transitions and expand local provision.
These robust improvement plans are in place to ensure adult social care is community-focused, financially resilient and sustainable, delivering the services required to support and meeting the needs of residents in the borough.
Councillor Andrea Goddard, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission, but even prouder the inspectors recognised the way we work with people who use our services, not just for them.
“Our residents with lived experience helped shape this assessment from start to finish. Their voices, honesty and insight sit at the heart of this result.
“This rating reflects the dedication of our skilled and compassionate workforce, who felt supported by visible leadership, and the strength of our community partnerships. Our staff go above and beyond every day to support residents with dignity, independence and respect.
“While we know there is more to do, we remain relentlessly focused on improving outcomes and ensuring every person in Dudley borough feels valued, heard and well supported.”