Report praises social care services

A council report has praised the improvements and achievements of Wolverhampton's social services team in the past year.

The local authority said its report highlighted "national recognition, high standards of practice, continued workforce growth" and "major progress" in supporting people and understanding the effects trauma could have on them.

Last month its adult social care services were rated "good" by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

The council also said it had received 22 nominations in the British Association of Social Workers' Amazing Social Work Awards.

The annual report, written by City of Wolverhampton Council's Principal Social Worker Hannah Bates, drew attention to the roll out of services designed to "understand and respond to the impact that trauma can have on children, families and adults".

It also said in the past year the council had supported 11 social work apprentices and 12 newly qualified social workers who were involved in a supported year in employment.

The report added that key areas for ongoing improvement included "the timeliness of reviews and meetings, consistent use of tools such as family meetings, and the quality and clarity of management oversight and recording".

The more independent CQC report last month said many residents had spoken of positive experiences of care and support tailored to individuals' needs, although it acknowledged others had "highlighted delays, communication issues and inconsistencies in service provision".

Jacqui Coogan, the councillor responsible for children, young people and education, said staff recruitment and retention was a priority.

She said it was "encouraging to see that our continued focus on support, development and career progression is helping us build a stable and experienced workforce for the future".

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