In the space of a fortnight, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Children’s Social Care Services were rated Good by Ofsted, while Adult Social Care was judged Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) – highlighting strong and consistent support from birth through to later life.
Ofsted found that services for children in care and care leavers are Outstanding, with strong leadership and partnership working helping vulnerable children and families get the right support at the right time. Inspectors said children’s lives are improved by ‘strong social work practice’ and praised the council’s ability to deliver early help and stable, supportive care.
Meanwhile, the CQC reported that adult social care services are delivering positive experiences and outcomes, with people supported to live independently, build strong relationships with staff, and receive care tailored to their individual needs. Inspectors highlighted strengths in partnership working, safeguarding, leadership and continuous improvement, with staff working closely with health and community partners to deliver joined up support across the city.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “This is a really positive story for Wolverhampton. Together, the 2 reports offer a clear picture of a social care system that is performing well across the board, providing consistent, high quality support for people at every age and every stage of their lives.
“Our children’s services continue to deliver outstanding support for children in care and care leavers, while also improving outcomes for families earlier, helping to prevent problems from escalating.
“Just as importantly, this strong foundation continues into adulthood, with services that help people stay well, remain independent and achieve their goals.”
Councillor Linda Leach, Cabinet Member for Adults, added: “We are really pleased that Ofsted and the CQC recognise the strength of social care in Wolverhampton.
“These reports show that whether you are a child, a young person starting out in adulthood, or someone who needs support later in life, you can expect good quality care that is built around you as an individual.
“We know how important it is that people feel listened to, supported and able to live independently wherever possible, and it is encouraging to see that reflected so strongly in inspectors’ findings.”
Both inspections highlighted the importance of strong partnerships, a skilled and supported workforce, and a clear focus on listening to people and using their feedback to shape services.
In children’s services, inspectors praised the council’s ‘community parenting’ approach and the strong voice given to care leavers, as well as the stability of placements and workforce.
In adult services, inspectors noted the council’s ‘strong commitment to partnership working’ and a culture of continuous learning, with staff supported to develop and improve practice.
There was also recognition in both reports of the council’s focus on early help, prevention and timely support, ensuring that people get the help they need before issues escalate.
Councillor Coogan continued: “These results show we are on the right track and making a real difference to people’s lives. Our focus now is on building on this success, continuing to raise standards and making sure every resident receives the right support, at the right time.”
Councillor Leach added: “Of course, we are not complacent. Both inspections help us understand where we can go further, and we are already taking action to continue improving services.
“But we can be proud that people in Wolverhampton can rely on good social care, whatever their age, and that we are building on a strong foundation for the future.”
