Worry for residents as Bedford Borough Council graded ‘Requires Improvement’ for Adult Services

Long waits for assessments, weaknesses with governance and people with mental health needs falling through gaps in the system have all been highlighted in a report by the CQC (Care Quality Commission) on Bedford’s Adult Services. 

Adult Services (sometimes described as Adult Social Care) refers to the range of support the council provides to help adults who need assistance to live safely, independently, and with dignity.

Out of nine areas inspected, none achieved a ‘Good’. Three areas -  Assessing Needs, Safeguarding, and Governance, Management and Sustainability - achieved the lowest possible score.

Cllr Henry Vann, leader of Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats, commented, 

“This report is incredibly disappointing. Bedford Borough Council scored 42 points out of 100, only 4 points off an ‘Inadequate’ judgement. There were no areas at all where the Council could ‘evidence a good standard’. 

I have called on the Portfolio Holder to share an urgent update on the situation and demanded that all councillors see the Improvement Plan for Adults Services. 

Residents will be deeply concerned at this inspection result that comes on top of other cuts to support for vulnerable adults and the Requires Improvement judgement for Children’s Services. 

The truth is that they haven’t been listening to residents, and on their watch services for vulnerable Adults and Children have both been found wanting. 

The Mayor must do better for our most vulnerable residents.”

Notes: 

Bedford Borough Council: local authority assessment - Care Quality Commission