Salford council criticised for ‘inadequate’ adult social care provision
Latest CQC reports reveal mixed findings across Greater Manchester
Recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections have highlighted inadequacies within Salford council’s adult social care services, raising concerns about the impact on residents' well-being.
Salford's services were rated ‘inadequate’ in all areas after findings showed significant delays, ignored concerns, and a lack of respect for human rights. Mayor Paul Dennett expressed shock, noting the rating was not what he expected for the city or its residents.
Salford’s social care challenges
The CQC report detailed several deficiencies. Some individuals waited for years for care assessments, causing harm to their physical health. One case involved a relative unable to use their shower for months, reportedly worsening their health.
Financial mismanagement led to distressing debt collection notices sent to carers, despite them overpaying and being owed refunds. Communication issues further exacerbated frustrations, with many care-givers resorting to formal complaints but feeling dissatisfied with responses.
In response, Salford council is taking steps to exert more direct control over its social care services from Northern Care Alliance Trust. Deputy Mayor John Merry has stepped down from his role overseeing adult social care.
Positive and negative findings across Greater Manchester
Other Greater Manchester regions yielded a variety of results in recent CQC inspections:
Oldham: Leesbrook Surgery, rated ‘good,’ was praised for its compassionate care and effective health support.
Stockport: Heaton Mersey Medical Practice and Vernon Park Surgery were both rated ‘good,’ highlighting excellent patient care and high satisfaction scores from national GP surveys.
Tameside: The Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust’s community-based mental health services were deemed ‘requires improvement,’ with staff shortages, inconsistent training, and inadequate facilities.
Wigan: Thomas Linacre Centre received a ‘good’ rating, recognising staff competence and compassion. However, concerns were raised over outdated equipment and unclear emergency procedures.
The latest CQC reports have spurred councils and trusts into action, aiming to address shortcomings and improve overall service quality across the region. The mixed reviews show that while many healthcare providers continue to meet high standards, there remain areas in need of significant improvement to ensure safe and efficient care delivery.