Local authority improvement check letter: Powys County Council Social Services
CIW has today published a letter summarising the findings of our local authority improvement check on Powys County Council Social, which took place between 9 and 13 May 2022
CIW conducted this improvement check to review the progress made by the local authority in relation to the areas for improvement identified during a Performance Evaluation Inspection (PEI) in September 2020.
Summary of findings
People – The inspectorate found the local authority has worked hard to reshape and re-design its service with a focus on improving delivery of early intervention and preventative services.
Prevention – In children’s services, although a process was in place in relation to transition of children between teams and services, CIW found examples where the support for some families was too fragmented. Further work is required to ensure seamless and co-ordinated services which prevent escalation of need and ensures the best outcomes for children and families.
Well-being – CIW saw good examples of mental capacity assessments and best
interest decision making taking place in accordance with the principles of the Mental
Capacity Act 2005 and accompanying code of practice.
Partnership – The inspectorate heard about effective partnership working with health professionals in relation to hospital discharge. This included virtual ward meetings. One practitioner, despite the challenges associated with hospital discharge, described feeling there was a ‘together approach’
Next steps
CIW will monitor progress through its ongoing performance monitoring and review activities with the local authority.
Key findings are in line with principles of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.
The Act imposes duties on local authorities, health boards and Welsh Ministers that require them to work to promote the well-being of those who need care and support, or carers who need support.
The principles of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014 act are:
- Support for people who have care and support needs to achieve well-being.
- People are at the heart of the new system by giving them an equal say in the support they receive.
- Partnership and co-operation drives service delivery.
- Services will promote the prevention of escalating need and the right help is available at the right time.
Improvement Check visit to Powys County Council Social Services
