To approve publication of the Local Account of Adult Social Care and Support 2013/14.

The Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing presented the Adult Social Care in Herefordshire 2013/14 Local Account. This is a statutory report, required by the Department of Health, looking back at the service provided by Adult Social Care in 2013/14.

It was pointed out to members that the majority of service users are generally happy with the service they receive. The report looks forward to plans around increased use of direct payments, service users having greater control, working with partners and the introduction of the Care Act in 2015.

Following concern raised by members about the care of elderly people, the Director of Adults Wellbeing confirmed that across the health and social care sector there are issues with the workforce and recruiting staff. For many people the sector is not seen as an attractive option. Work has been done with partners, and colleges to see how to increase the capacity of the workforce and how to attract more people to the profession.

Concerning care homes that are not compliant with national standards the Director of Adults Wellbeing confirmed the responsibility for this lies with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). However the local authority does have a quality control process and officers to deal with issues. A local process is in place to make sure improvements are made.

Following a query about alleged financial abuse of patients, the Director of Adults Wellbeing confirmed this can be a common problem, especially for elderly people. There is currently a safeguarding process in place, and options for people include the court of protection and involvement from police and social workers. Work has been done with Trading Standards to make people aware of the possible risks. The Care Act will give further advice and guidance on how people can be protected.