NHS-style rating plan

The Department of Health is considering
introducing a ratings system for social care organisations based on
the NHS “traffic light” system.

Under the NHS initiative announced by health
minister Alan Milburn in June 2000, health authorities and trusts
will be classified, depending on their performance, as green, amber
or red.

“Green” health organisations will be entitled
to greater local freedom to manage for themselves, having shown
consistent achievement of key national standards. Poorly performing
“red” health organisations will receive expert advice and support
and, where necessary, intervention to help front-line staff
redesign services.

A DoH spokesperson said the traffic light
system was “an option being considered for social care”. An
announcement is expected in due course.