Merton’s adult social care services have been rated Good by independent regulator the Care Quality Commission, in a report published today. (13 August)
This followed an inspection in April, the first for Merton under the Care Quality Commission’s new method of assessment, which looks at how the council is meeting its responsibilities to ensure that people have access to adult social care and support under the Care Act 2014.
Inspectors examined how the council works with people and provides support, as well as safeguarding and leadership. Inspectors concluded that services are performing well and meeting their expectations.
The Good rating from the Care Quality Commission reinforces the findings of consumer group Which? that Merton is the best place in London to retire to and one of the top 12 best places in the country.
During 2023/4, Merton supported around 2,210 people for long term adult social care, plus 560 people on a short-term basis.
The Care Quality Commission inspectors found that there was a focus on meeting each person’s needs and that unpaid carer’s needs were assessed separately to those of the people they look after. Inspectors also praised the leadership of the services as well as the strong community partnerships and safeguarding.
Council Leader, Councillor Ross Garrod said: “We’re very proud that Merton’s adult social care services have been rated Good by the Care Quality Commission. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, compassion, and professionalism of council staff, our partners and local volunteers who work tirelessly every day to support some of the most vulnerable people in our borough.”
Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Councillor Peter McCabe said: “We’re delighted that the Care Quality Commission’s inspectors recognised the passion and commitment of our fantastic staff in supporting residents to live as independently as possible. We’re also pleased that the inspectors highlighted the strong leadership of the service, with staff and our partners stating that our leaders were highly visible, compassionate, and that they listened to them.”
The inspectors’ key findings about Merton included:
- A focus on meeting each person’s needs, listening and acting on their wishes and keeping them involved in decisions about their holistic care.
- Strong partnerships across the community provide the support and guidance to enable people to live as independently as possible.
- Residents understood our safeguarding processes and why the council is taking action to keep them safe.
- Unpaid carers’ needs are treated as distinct from those of the people they cared for.
- Strong leadership of the services, with staff and partners stating that leaders were highly visible, compassionate, and that they listened to them.