Social work services bounce back after critical report

Social work services in Argyll and Bute have significantly improved following a critical report from the national inspection agency.

A follow-up report published yesterday by the Social Work Inspection Agency (Swia) highlights progress made on recommendations of its original report of October 2007.

Inspectors also found that service users and carers believe that the communication they have with Argyll and Bute Council’s social services team, and their involvement in the care process, has improved.

The original report highlighted a lack of confidence in the leadership and low morale of some staff.

The council faced heavy criticism over the delays experienced by some elderly people in receiving care packages they are entitled to.

But yesterday’s report shows an improvement in educational attainment of the council’s looked after children and an increase in the number of young people leaving council care who are in employment, training or further education.

The improved performance in relation to free personal care was also praised, with Argyll and Bute Council having jumped from 26th out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities in 2005/06 to sixth in 2007/08 in terms of the number of home care clients aged over 65 receiving free personal care.

The report also reveals social work staff at all levels are positive about the perceived openness and the opportunity to influence how services are shaped.

Councillor Donald McIntosh, the council’s spokesman for social services, said he was pleased that the report reflects the achievements of the last 18 months.

“The Swia inspectors have recognised the hard work and dedication of all staff in improving the service and the results of that work to date. Indeed, they have found progress has been made on every recommendation found in the original report.

“The level of commitment shown in addressing the relevant issues has been exemplary. We have worked closely with our stakeholders, staff and local communities to make all our services more responsive to local needs.

“Despite the clear progress being made, we will not be complacent. We remain committed to continuously seeking ways of improving the service we provide to all service users.”