We have received a “good” rating in the first assessment of our adult social care services.
The report, published today by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), celebrates our commitment to early intervention, prevention and innovation.
Following an inspection which gathered feedback from residents, carers, partners and providers, inspectors found that social care services for adults in the borough meet a good standard.
The assessment praised our ‘home first’ approach, which has successfully reduced reliance on residential care by focusing on reablement, rehabilitation and assistive technology. This means residents in the borough are living independently for longer.
The service’s strong culture of coproduction was highlighted by inspectors too. Those with lived experience work alongside us to shape decision making and improve services, particularly autistic people and unpaid carers.
Other key strengths highlighted by inspectors include:
- Effective hospital discharge processes and reablement services.
- Neighbourhood-based support to address social isolation through the Care and Connect Team.
- Innovative initiatives using technology allow residents to live safely at home.
- Strong partnerships with partners in the health, voluntary and community sectors.
The report also identified areas for development in the service, as part of its ongoing transformation to reflect the changing landscape of social care.
Inspectors acknowledged the work that is already underway to reduce waiting times for assessments and reviews, to enhance reablement services and to address gaps in areas including safeguarding, support for carers and workforce recruitment.
Cllr Janet Hunter, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at North Tyneside Council, said: “We are proud of the recognition this report gives to our dedicated staff and partners, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to speak to inspectors and share their experiences.
“We know that some of those accessing our services are the most vulnerable and they deserve access to the highest possible quality of care that is centred around them and their needs.
“I’m pleased to hear from inspectors that we are delivering that. We know there is more to do, and we are already taking on the feedback to ensure we’re helping our residents live the lives they deserve to lead, with as much independence as possible.”