Aberdeenshire Inspection Report Highlights ‘A Number Of Strengths’

Social work services are making a difference to communities and vulnerable people across Aberdeenshire, according to social work inspectors. The Social Work Inspection Agency (SWIA) has covered all aspects of the council’s services, with most areas being rated good.

The inspection highlighted a number of strengths, including good leadership, committed and competent staff and a commitment to working with local communities and other agencies to provide vulnerable people with the help they need.

Inspectors also made 12 recommendations to improve the service. These include, ensuring staff’s workloads are manageable, working more effectively with carers and strengthening performance management systems.

SWIA chief inspector Alexis Jay said: “Across the country, social work services provide vital support for vulnerable people. We know these services can always be improved and inspection helps us drive up standards.

“Today’s report measures how well Aberdeenshire Council is performing and, overall, services are good. Clearly, there is always scope to improve and we did find areas where Aberdeenshire can do more. We will continue to work with the council to agree an action plan and ensure that the necessary changes are both implemented and monitored.”

In 2006 SWIA began a series of performance inspections of all local authority social work services, following three pilot inspections in 2005.

The inspection of Aberdeenshire Council took place from February – July 2006.