Dudley praised for partnerships with health

Dudley Council demonstrated robust partnerships between social
services and health, a Social Services Inspectorate report
found.

Good performance was noted in the planning and performance in
managing winter pressures and developing intermediate care. There
was a strong performance in terms of placement choice for looked
after children and the investment profile for related services.

The children’s and families division was praised for
providing evidence of leadership and investment in strategic
partnerships, and in meeting statutory requirements.

Action for the next year within the children and families’
area, includes the full implementation of the assessment framework
for children in need, assessment and care management in the
children’s division and the development of new service
options for children with disabilities.

Dudley social services will also need to develop a range of
initiatives for appropriate engagement with the black and ethnic
minority community.

The adult care division was noted for coherent strategies for
carers, but will need to re-engage more actively with Dudley Group
of Hospitals NHS Trust, and there needs to be ongoing consideration
of care trust opportunities.

Chris Williams, director of social services, said: “I am pleased
to say that this report reflects the positive commitment the
department is making to provide high quality and relevant social
care services.”

“The staff have shown great determination and commitment to work
together to achieve these high standards,” he added.