CQC rates West Northamptonshire Council’s adult care services as ‘Requires Improvement’
The council says improvements are already being made
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published its first assessment of adult social care services delivered by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), rating them as “Requires Improvement.”
The council scored 59% overall, putting it 4% below the threshold for a “Good” rating in what the CQC describes as an independent baseline for improvement. The rating was part of a new national programme that will evaluate all local authorities in England.
Out of nine areas of performance assessed, three received a “Good” rating: safeguarding (75%), partnerships and communities (69%), and learning improvement and innovation (63%). The remaining six areas scored 57%, just below the “Good” threshold.
Identified strengths
The report highlighted several strengths in adult social care across West Northamptonshire.
Safeguarding systems were praised for their clear processes and partnership working, while assessments were regarded as person-centred and focused on a person’s strengths. Efforts toward equality and inclusion were also noted as ensuring people felt involved in decisions about their care.
Strong relationships with health and voluntary sector organisations were found to support safe hospital discharges and prevention-focused work. Innovation was highlighted in areas such as digital technology, falls prevention, and reablement services.
Areas needing focus
Despite progress since WNC became a unitary council in 2021, the assessment pointed out areas requiring attention, many linked to broader national challenges.
These include delays in annual reviews, inconsistent carers’ assessments, workforce shortages, gaps in rural access and autism support, and delays in NHS Continuing Health Care processes and equipment provision.
Actions already underway
West Northamptonshire Council stated it is already working on these findings through its improvement plan.
The council’s plan focuses on improving accessibility, reducing assessment waiting times, strengthening support for carers, and enhancing services for autism and mental health pathways. Increasing equality and cultural competence are also part of their approach.
Cllr Laura Couse, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Public Health, said: “We are very close to achieving a ‘Good’ rating, and we will continue working together to ensure the improvements underway translate into the outcomes our residents expect and deserve.”
Melanie Williams, Executive Director for People at the council, highlighted the importance of this baseline assessment in shaping future improvements, stating: “Our focus now is to build on the solid foundations developed since becoming a unitary council and to deliver the improvements for our communities.”
The council will continue working in collaboration with the CQC and health and social care partners as it moves forward.
The improvement plan will be shared publicly, and the full report can be accessed on the CQC’s website