Liverpool City Council’s Adult Social Care services have received a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England. The positive assessment follows a detailed inspection and highlights significant improvements in the quality and delivery of care for the city's residents.
The CQC report praised the council for its person-centred approach, noting that individuals feel listened to and respected. This achievement is seen as a key milestone in the council's ongoing efforts to transform its social care provisions, focusing on independence and community support.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool's Adult Social Care services have been officially rated 'Good' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
- The inspection highlighted a strong person-centred approach, where residents feel heard and their families are involved in decisions.
- Inspectors noted visible and knowledgeable leadership, contributing to high staff morale and motivation.
- Significant improvements were found in waiting times for assessments and better support for individuals with sensory impairments.
- The rating is attributed to a wider transformation programme aimed at helping residents live independently for longer.
Detailed Findings from the CQC Inspection
The Care Quality Commission conducted a thorough assessment of how Liverpool City Council meets its responsibilities in supporting adults with care needs. The resulting 'Good' rating was based on several key areas where the service demonstrated high performance and a commitment to quality.
A Person-Centred Approach
A central theme in the CQC's positive evaluation was the service's dedication to putting people at the heart of their care. According to the report, residents who use the services reported feeling that their wishes were consistently respected. They also confirmed that they felt genuinely listened to by the social care teams.
Furthermore, the involvement of families in the decision-making process was highlighted as a major strength. This collaborative approach ensures that care plans are holistic and consider the wider support network of the individual, leading to better outcomes and greater satisfaction.
Staff Morale and Support
The CQC report also gathered feedback from staff members. Employees shared that they feel motivated, well-supported, and valued in their roles. This positive internal culture is considered crucial for delivering compassionate and effective care to the public.
Visible and Effective Leadership
The leadership within the Adult Social Care department was another area that received specific praise. Inspectors described the leadership team as being "visible, approachable, and knowledgeable." This accessibility helps foster a transparent and supportive work environment.
The CQC noted that leaders have a clear and realistic understanding of the challenges currently facing the adult social care sector. This awareness allows them to strategically plan and implement effective solutions to improve services for Liverpool's residents.
Key Improvements Driving Success
The 'Good' rating is not just an acknowledgement of current standards but also a reflection of targeted improvements made as part of a comprehensive transformation programme. The council has focused on several key areas to enhance its service delivery.
Focus on Prevention and Independence
A significant part of the council's strategy is a strong focus on prevention. The aim is to provide support that helps people stay independent and remain in their own homes for as long as possible. This proactive approach reduces the need for more intensive care later on and improves overall quality of life.
This strategy involves connecting individuals with community resources, adapting homes, and providing the right level of support at the right time. By empowering residents, the council is fostering a more sustainable and effective social care system.
Reduced Waiting Times and Enhanced Support
The inspection identified tangible progress in operational efficiency. Waiting times for both initial assessments and subsequent reviews have seen marked improvements. This means residents are getting the support they need more quickly, preventing potential crises and reducing stress for individuals and their families.
Another specific area of improvement was the enhanced support for people with sensory impairments, such as hearing or vision loss. The council has implemented better processes and provided specialised resources to ensure these individuals receive care that is tailored to their specific needs, promoting greater inclusion and independence.
Official Response to the Achievement
Leaders at Liverpool City Council have welcomed the CQC's report, viewing it as a validation of the hard work and dedication of the Adult Social Care teams. They have expressed pride in the achievement while also acknowledging the need for continued improvement.
Councillor Angela Coleman, the Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, shared her thoughts on the rating.
“This is a proud moment for Liverpool. It reflects the compassion, professionalism, and dedication of our Adult Social Care teams. I am especially proud of our staff who put their heart and soul into supporting people every single day. This wouldn’t be possible without them. We know there’s more to do, and we’re committed to continuing to improve and build on this success.”
Her comments were echoed by Anne Marie Lubanski, the Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Adult Social Care, who connected the rating directly to the department's strategic changes.
“I am delighted with the outcome of the CQC report. It highlights the positive impact of our transformation work and the shift towards more person-centred, empowering care. Our staff have been incredible throughout this journey, and this rating is a testament to their hard work and dedication. We’re looking ahead with determination and will keep improving for the people of Liverpool.”
The Future of Adult Social Care in Liverpool
While the 'Good' rating is a significant accomplishment, the council views it as a foundation for future work. The transformation programme that has driven these improvements is ongoing, with a continued focus on empowering residents to live independently and stay connected to their communities.
The positive feedback from the CQC will be used to identify areas of best practice and guide further enhancements. For the residents of Liverpool, this rating provides assurance that the city's adult social care services are effective, compassionate, and committed to delivering high-quality support for those who need it most.