Clackmannanshire social care services getting better

SOCIAL care services in Clackmannanshire are improving according to a report to councillors last week.

More investment in services for young people and successful recruitment of more social workers were among improvements made in the service, which was criticised last year by education inspectors.

A 12-month inspection up to March 2007 by HMIe, into the level of care offered to vulnerable youngsters in the area, led council leader Janet Cadenhead to admit there had been a “less than adequate” service in the past.

Ochil MSP Keith Brown also called on her to resign in February last year, taking responsibility for “bad leadership and planning”.

Even at this point, however, he admitted that improvements were being made and last Friday the Wee County’s chief social work officer updated politicians on the latest position.

From a previous low of just one third of social worker vacancies in Clackmannanshire being unfilled the Wee County now had a full staff “meaning a more stable workforce and continuity of care for children”.

An interim follow-up inspection by HMIe and a further inspection by the Care Commission were also positive about the Woodside Children’s Unit.

In terms of adult care they said that moves have been afoot to move these facilities into “more inclusive, community settings” while the new Clackmannanshire Community Healthcare Centre would bring greater sharing of information and closer joint working as social workers worked alongside health colleagues.

Portfolio holder for regeneration, Councillor Sam Ovens, said: “These improvements are a credit to our hard-working social care staff.

“I recently met some of the young people in our care and was impressed with the dedication, professionalism and caring attitude of those working to give them the best chances in life.

“They also exemplify partnership working, sharing information with the NHS and other services to keep vulnerable children and adults safe and well.”