Merton Council has secured a good score in all sections of this year’s Care Quality Commission Annual Assessment Report.
The council scores well for quality in all seven parts of the report, which cover improving health and well-being, improving quality of life, making a positive contribution, increasing choice and control, freedom from discrimination and harassment, economic well being and maintaining personal dignity and respect.
In summing up what Merton does well, the Commission – an independent body which regulates health and social care across England – said the council provided good support for those living independently and added that there was a high level of satisfaction among older people in the borough. The report went on to describe how Merton supported those who use its services and want to take part in community life. It also talked about a number of positive and innovative support schemes available to help older people make decisions about their own care.
The council was praised for promoting equality, using information from referrals and casework to identify priorities and forward plan as well as for providing training for staff. The Commission also highlighted Merton’s action plan to provide employment opportunities for disabled residents and those with learning difficulties.
The Commission’s report included an assessment on leadership, commissioning and the council’s use of resources, which praised Merton for reducing sickness levels among staff and the council’s close partnership with local health services.
Merton Council’s cabinet member for adult care services and health, Councillor Maurice Groves said: “This is a very positive assessment for Merton and shows how we are continuing to improve in our aims to provide local residents with the high quality services they need and deserve.
“It is testament to the hard work of all those involved in health and social care that we have scored well in every aspect of the Commission’s report and we are already working hard to achieve an even better score next year.”
Merton’s Annual Performance Assessment report can be viewed at http://www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/adultservices
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