Services praised for helping residents live well, safely and independently.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated Southend-on-Sea City Council's Adult Social Care Department as 'Good'. They have highlighted a strong performance in safeguarding, prevention, reablement and community support. Our unpaid carers feel supported, and staff feel valued and well trained.
Southend-on-Sea City Council's Adult Social Care services have been rated 'Good' by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) following their recent inspection, recognising the high standard of care and support provided to residents.
The assessment looked at how well the council supports people to live safely, independently and with dignity. It was based on the evidence submitted, conversations with people who use our services, partners, carers, and frontline staff, plus an onsite visit.
The report highlighted that we:
- respond well in crisis situations
- support unpaid carers through timely assessments, breaks and advocacy
- have strong community connections that reduce isolation and improve wellbeing
- deliver care that respects people's rights and choices
James Bullion, CQC's Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care and Integrated Care, said: "We saw this in their targeted outreach programmes for people with complex needs and support tailored to seldom heard communities.
"We also saw it in their investment in preventative services aimed at keeping people healthier and more independent for longer including those addressing hoarding, homelessness, and social isolation."
Staff were also recognised as well-trained and compassionate, with leaders providing clear direction and a strong vision for the future. Our partnerships with the voluntary and community sector were also praised.
Cllr Maxine Sadza, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Healthier Communities, said: "We're proud to receive a Good rating from the Care Quality Commission. It shows the dedication and compassion of our teams, partners, carers and voluntary organisations who work tirelessly to support our residents.
"This is more than just a rating, it's a reflection of the difference we make in people's lives every day. Whether it's helping someone return home safely from hospital, supporting unpaid carers, or connecting people with their communities, our aim is always to support people to live safely, independently and with dignity.
"The report rightly recognises our strengths, but also gives us areas to focus on going forwards. We're already taking action to improve access to information, work to further develop the care provider market and increase joint work with other organisations such as the NHS.
"I want to thank everyone involved for their continued effort and care, and would like to assure residents that we will keep working hard to deliver the support they need and deserve."
James Bullion added: "Overall, Southend-on-Sea should be really pleased with the many positive findings in our report and their Good rating. They've already told us how they're planning to build on this further and we look forward to seeing how their plans mature."
The full report will be available on the CQC website.