Middlesbrough Social Care Needs Improvement But Staff Knowledge Praised

James Bullion spoke about Middlesbrough Council’s care. People had different experiences with their care. Council leaders knew the needs of the people and what needed fixing before the assessment. The leaders had already started making changes.

They wanted to reduce inequality in social care. The council talked to the people affected to see how they can create a fairer plan. The plan would help everyone in Middlesbrough have good outcomes. Leaders knew about safety risks because of crime.

They worked with others to fix these safety risks. Problems included sexual abuse and homelessness. They also helped young adults with trauma issues. People had mixed views on how long they waited for help.

Some got quick help with services. Others waited too long for a review they already had scheduled. Leaders reassigned staff to help and also hired temporary workers. People liked the assessments they received.

Ordering equipment to help them stay independent was simple and it also arrived quickly. The equipment allowed people to live safely at home. This further improved their satisfaction. Some family caregivers had trouble as they said information wasn’t clear.

Options were not always explained well. A survey showed many weren’t happy with social services with only about 45% feeling satisfied overall. One partner praised the council’s support.

They supported unpaid caregivers of people with mental problems. This partner believed the support deserved special praise. Another partner shared some positive news. The council gave money to carers who needed help.

One carer got help to replace a broken washing machine and the council helped fix it that same day. Middlesbrough Council started making plans for improvement. This was before this assessment happened.

They are building good services for the people. The council laid a solid base to do more and the team looks forward to seeing the improvements.