Tower Hamlets (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Tower Hamlets Council’s Shared Lives service has been rated ‘Good’ in its first Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection, marking a strong achievement.
Through the program Shared Lives, adults with learning disabilities are paired with thoroughly screened caretakers who accept them into their homes and families. People can live more freely, build enduring connections, and stay involved in their communities with this method.
The CQC commended the program and Shared Lives carers for providing safe, efficient, compassionate, and well-led service delivery, as well as for treating people with “kindness, compassion, and respect.”
The report highlighted the personal and family-like relationships between Shared Lives carers and the people they support, stating that
“the provider and shared lives carers were exceptional in how they listened to and understood people’s needs, views and wishes”.
The program’s dedication to person-centered care, with “people being supported to make decisions and participate in daily life,” was highlighted by inspectors. They also mentioned that the service has a constant improvement culture and robust protection procedures.
Proactive safeguarding, innovative methods of gathering service user input, and “strong evidence of integrated working” with health professionals were also commended in the report.
Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said:
“This rating is a testament to the compassion and dedication of our Shared Lives carers and staff. Tower Hamlets is committed to delivering care that empowers individuals and strengthens our communities.
I’m proud that our Shared Lives scheme reflects the values of dignity, inclusion and respect that we hold dear.”
Cllr Sabina Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, said:
“Shared Lives in a shining example of how care can be delivered in a way that feels like home. This ‘Good’ rating from CQC confirms what we already know – that our carers go above and beyond to support autistic people and people with a learning disability to live fulfilling, independent lives.
We will continue to build on this success and ensure every resident receives the quality of care they deserve.”
Which areas did the inspection say still need improvement?
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection of Tower Hamlets Council’s Shared Lives service did rate the service “Good” but found areas for improvement. Ensuring consistent due diligence, documentation, and record-keeping practices in all case scenarios.
Enhancing staff development and continuing professional development to continually deliver with high quality individualized care. Improve access to communication and feedback practices to ensure supported individuals and their families/caregivers can clearly and effectively raise issues or contribute input.
General focus on slow and inefficient response to safeguarding issues. Improve oversight and governance within some operational areas to ensure ongoing quality oversight and improvement.