West Dunbartonshire social services urged to improve
By News Scotland

A report into social work services in West Dunbartonshire has made 13 recommendations for improvement. The Social Work Inspection Agency said the service delivered positive outcomes for many people, in particular children and adults with learning difficulties.

But it found some carers were less positive about impact the social work service had on their lives.

The findings were published after a six-month inspection between June and November last year.

The report, which covers all aspects of West Dunbartonshire Council’s social work services, evaluated nine areas as good and one area – relating to the delivery of processes – as adequate.

Inspectors praised the service provided to looked after and accommodated children, adults with learning disabilities, and adults with acquired brain injuries.

They also highlighted as strengths the high levels of community involvement in social work activities and positive partnerships with other agencies and organisations.

However they said, attention needed to be given to risk assessments, particularly in community care and criminal justice cases.

The service was urged to ensure staff had a proper understanding of risk and were aware of the risk assessment tools they should use.

Alexis Jay, chief inspector at the SWIA said: “The inspection team was impressed with the range of initiatives being delivered by the council and partner agencies, and the associated positive outcomes.

“As outlined in the recommendations, the council now needs to address a number of its processes to help improve the quality of outcomes for services users, and we will work with the management to agree an action plan in response to this inspection report.”

Bill Clark, executive director for social work and health services said: “West Dunbartonshire Council has impressed the inspectors with a range of services that deliver a better life for the people who use them.

“We welcome the recommendations by the inspectors and recognise where improvements can and should be made. ”