News

Stoke-on-Trent social services are serving some people well but its prospects for improvement are uncertain, according to a joint review.

While the department has many strengths, the local authority is "at a crossroads" and needs to make more key decisions to allow social services to move forward and fully modernise, finds the report by the Social Services Inspectorate and the Audit Commission.

Many adult clients experience delays in accessing services, a lack of clarity about who should have an assessment, and too many referrals within the department and between agencies.

In children and families services staff tend to be reluctant to offer family support. A more co-ordinated approach is needed between agencies to ensure that the right combination of services is available to prevent family crises.

The report reveals that there are good relationships across local agencies and a "shared will" to develop better services. However, the authority must focus on developing clearer and more ambitious plans with its partners and on implementing these within an acceptable timescale.