Adult social care rated ‘Good’ in CQC assessment
Darlington Borough Council’s adult social care services have been rated ‘Good’ in a comprehensive assessment by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), confirming the Council’s strong performance in supporting residents’ independence, wellbeing, and care needs.
CQC inspectors visited Darlington in January as part of their new approach to assessing local authorities across England. The evaluation focused on the quality of care, safety, leadership, and the effectiveness of services provided to adults in need of support.
The report, published today, highlights numerous strengths, including:
- A consistent, strength-based assessment programme.
- Effective hospital discharge arrangements and reablement services.
- High satisfaction among unpaid carers.
- A responsive and person-centred approach from social workers.
- Strong multi-agency partnerships and a commitment to continuous improvement.
While the report also notes some areas for development, such as equality data collection and delays in occupational therapy assessments, it commends the Council’s proactive steps to address these challenges and improve service delivery.
Cllr Anne-Marie Curry, Cabinet member for Adults, said: “We are delighted that the CQC has recognised the hard work and dedication of our adult social care teams.
“This ‘Good’ rating reflects our ongoing commitment to putting people first, promoting independence, and delivering high-quality care for everyone in Darlington. We know there is always more to do, and we will continue working closely with our partners and communities to ensure that our services are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to local needs.”
Darlington’s approach includes robust support for carers, strong preventative measures, and flexible care options that prioritise independence and dignity. The report also praised the Council’s collaboration with health partners and the voluntary sector, ensuring services are coordinated and person-centred.
To read the full CQC report, visit www.cqc.org.uk