Media Releases

Reading's Adult Social Services 'Performing Well'

02/12/2009

Press Release

Reading Borough Council is 'performing well' in delivering its adult social care services. This is the conclusion of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) which has been reviewing the performance of the Council over the past year.

The results of the CQC Annual Performance Assessment for 2008/9 have been published today (December 3rd). The CQC assessed the Council's performance against seven key criteria -improved health and well-being, quality of life, making a positive contribution, increased choice and control, freedom from discrimination and harassment, economic well-being and maintaining personal dignity and respect.

The review process takes place through the year and gave the Council particular praise for its leadership of the adult social care service and joint working with agencies and organisations, working together to deliver the best possible service for Reading residents.

Inspectors also praised the Council for improving the quality, range and flexibility of services to support people in their own homes and working to keep people living independently.

The performance assessment recognises the significant development of social care services for Reading.

Mike Orton, Lead Councillor for Community Care, said: "I'm very pleased with this independent assessment of Reading's adult social services. It recognises the major improvements and changes that are being made to services available for elderly and other vulnerable adults in Reading who need care and support.

"Care of the elderly and vulnerable is a key priority and Reading provides services for a wider range of people than any other Council in Berkshire. We have made a clear decision not to cut back on this. However, there is no room for complacency and the Council continues to invest time and money in improvements to all areas of service."

ENDS

Notes for Editors: The Care Quality Commission replaced the Commission for Social Care Inspection in April 2009 and is the independent regulator of health and social care services in England.

The CQC’s annual performance assessment provides an independent evaluation of a Council’s performance in delivering social care outcomes to its communities.

The purpose of the assessment is to promote local and national assurance about Council performance, accountability and service improvement.

The full report can be downloaded at www.cqc.org.uk from December 3rd.

Sarah Bishton
Tel: 0118 9399957