Good CQC rating for Cheshire East

Cheshire East Council has received a ‘Good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for its adult social care services.   

The CQC inspection found that people had access to local care and support services that were safe, effective, affordable, and high-quality to meet their needs, as well as recognising the dedication and hard work of staff in delivering person-centred care. 

Inspectors in the report noted the positive relationships between staff and people in receipt of care, the robust safeguarding procedures in place and the council’s proactive approach to continuous improvement. 

Other key points from the report included: 

• There was high satisfaction of care and support with residents expressing overall happiness with the care and support received from Cheshire East Council, highlighting effective communication and emotional support from social workers. 
• Respect for human rights as care and support services ensured that residents’ human rights were respected and protected, with involvement in decision-making and consideration of protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. 
• Residents appreciated the assessment and provision of equipment that supported their independence, enabling them to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. 
• Senior leaders and staff demonstrated a commitment to strength-based approaches, focusing on reducing, preventing, and delaying the need for formal services, and promoting positive outcomes through collaborative efforts.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council’s chair of the adults and health committee, said: “Along with other members of the committee, I am absolutely delighted, and this reflects all the hard work and commitment of our staff and the collaborative spirit across our teams and with our partners. 

“We all especially appreciate the CQC’s recognition of our ongoing efforts to improve and our commitment to provide individual care that addresses the different needs of our residents.  

“The ‘Good rating from the CQC signifies that Cheshire East Council’s adult social care services are performing well, and we are determined to build on this success and further enhance the quality of care we provide. 

“Adult social care represents the largest area of the council’s expenditure – £159 million annually, or 26 per cent of our total budget. This significant investment is a clear reflection of our commitment to supporting some of our most vulnerable residents, and it demonstrates that your council tax is being used to deliver essential, valued services.  

“With an ageing population and a growing number of younger adults with increasingly complex needs, we are facing evolving challenges. In response, we are embracing innovative approaches as part of our transformation programme, to ensure we continue to meet these needs effectively and compassionately.” 

The assessment can be found on the CQC website.