Adult social care service praised by watchdog

The CQC praised Bradford Council for several aspects of its service for vulnerable adults

The care for vulnerable adults given by Bradford Council has been praised by the health watchdog.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has rated the authority's adult social care services as "good" following an assessment earlier this year.

The CQC's report said the council had "effective processes" to protect people from abuse and neglect, and praised the support it offered to unpaid carers.

Chris Badger, the CQC's chief inspector of adult social care and integrated care, said: "We saw passionate leaders and staff who were committed to ensuring people have a positive experience and received person-centred support when they needed it."

In its report, the regulator praised Bradford Council for a scheme which had resulted in a huge drop in delays for patients being discharged from hospital.

The service offered intensive support for people to gain independence in their own homes after leaving hospital.

The CQC report said the number of discharge delays attributed to the social care sector had fallen from 33% to 3% as a result.

'Dedication and commitment'

The CQC's report also said that while safeguarding referrals had increased by 19% in the year 2023-24, increased investment meant "capacity matched demand and a timely, responsive service was in place".

Mr Badger said: "Overall, the staff at Bradford should be really pleased with their good rating and the services they're providing to people, and we look forward to seeing how their future plans mature."

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing at Bradford Council, said she was "thrilled" with the result.

"This recognition reflects the dedication and commitment of staff who deliver person-centred care every day," she added.

Iain Macbeath, strategic director of adult social care and health, said: "I want to thank staff, partners and everyone, especially those who draw on care and support, who has been involved in working towards the rating we have received for Bradford.

"We know there are still some areas where we need to make some changes and we will be focusing on the recommendations as highlighted by the CQC."

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